Online dating is a 365-day-a-year activity, but it's on Valentine's Day when a lot of people give it a go for the first time. Have fun, but take a few tips on board:
Select Your Dating Site(s) Wisely
Choose a site that will protect your privacy until you're comfortable revealing personal information, and enforces its policies against naughty or dishonest users
YOU Stay in Control
Make sure that you are always in control of what happens. Don't let anyone – that's anyone – pressure you into giving away more info than you feel comfortable with.
Personal Info
Don't post personal information like phone numbers, your normal email address, your home address or where you work, on dating site profiles. If you do need to post anything like this, make sure that it's blocked to people you contact via the site.
What's Your Name?
Still talking about dating sites, pick a username that doesn't include any personal information, like “wendy_hounslow” or even gary_astonvilla"
Are They Who You Think They Are?
Google potential dates to try to find out if they are who they say they are. Even a search with no results can often be a clue that the person isn’t being truthful.
Guard Your Heart (and Your Info!)
Never reveal personal data to someone until you meet face-to-face and are certain – like really certain – you can trust them. Don’t give anyone your full address when the city will suffice or a last name when an initial will do.
Keep Your Clothes on!
Don't take your clothes off or perform personal acts in front of your webcam, how much you think you know the person who's asking you to do it. This kind of stuff often gets used by blackmailers!
Avoid the Gimmicks
Steer clear of love apps and other potential risks that are available to you on your mobile or tablet. Freebies like compatibility tests or texts with your dating horoscope may seem like harmless fun until you discover the hidden fees.
