Thursday, August 18, 2011

Matchmaker dangers – what every online dater should know

There is no doubt about it – in this day and age, almost every single has considered matchmaker services at some point or another. Just a few years ago, it was still very rare for people to turn to the web to help them find love, and this type of dating was often considered desperate or downright dangerous. The dating world has come a long way since then, and today there are millions of singles seeking out matchmaker sites to assist them in meeting quality singles who share their values, interests and views. Many happy matches have resulted in wedding bells, which further showcases just how successful matchmaking can be for singles looking for love.

Despite these advancements, it is still essential for singles to consider the potential risks that come from any online service, in order to make the most of their chances and ensure happiness and romance. Some important things to consider include the following:

  • Profile names – using your real name in your dating profile is not advised at all, as this will reveal your name to anyone who browses profiles online. As many profiles are set to public view by default, some singles may not be aware that their profile can be seen by anyone who visits the website. Use a nickname that cannot be traced to your real identity, and only give your real name when you feel comfortable enough to trust the potential love interest you have been chatting to via email or text.

 

  • Photographs – while you may think that using a sexy picture of you in a low-cut dress and a suggestive smile may be what you need to increase your profile views, it may send out the wrong message to prospective matchmaker interests. Some people join a service purely to trawl for random hook-ups, and may not have the same idea of romance as you do. Use a conservative picture that shows you in a natural, less forced way and you will meet someone who will be dying to get to know the real you.

 

  • Address – short of stating your home town, it is vital to never include any address details on your profile. Stating the suburb you live in is one thing, but giving actual addresses or even giving a work address is an easy way for people to find out where you live or where you work. You may not even have made contact with people who can view this information, which is another reason why it is essential to keep information such as that off your profile and only give it out when you are certain that you can trust your new friends.

 

  • ID number and other details – if you are ever asked for your ID number, bank details or anything else that does not seem legit, do not be tempted to give these out. Con men have figured out that dating sites are a breeding ground for potential marks, and while most good matchmaker sites screen members carefully, it can be all too easy to pose as a single looking for love. No matter how plausible the reason may be for wanting you to divulge personal details, the best thing to do is report the member and stay well away.

 

  • Taking things slow – if you have struck up a conversation with a cutey who seems to make good dating material, then do not rush into anything. Anyone who wants to meet without chatting at all first, and anyone who tries to push you into seeing them should be treated with trepidation. Take your time and chat via the matchmaker website, or through email, IM and SMS before you agree to meet.

 

  • First date – the best plan is to choose a place that is public and fairly busy. Arrange for a lunchtime coffee, or an afternoon cold drink and try to avoid drinking booze on the first matchmaker date.
About the Author

Bianca Jones offers advice for singles seeking the ultimate <a href="http://www.matchvip.co.za/MatchVIP/our-guarantee.html">matchmaker</a> to ensure success for <a href="http://www.matchvip.co.za/">corporate dating</a>.

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