Online dating is a booming industry. It offers a much more convenient way to find matches near you and go on dates.
But, like any form of dating, going online comes with its risks. You’ll need to navigate scams, catfishes, and toxic behavior from other singles. That’s why we’ve written our guide for the top red flags when dating online. Keep reading if you want to know about these red flags and how to find a meaningful connection from an online dating site.
Is Online Dating Safe?
According to the Pew Research Center, 53% of people under 30 are using a dating app or site in the USA. However, the risks that come from online dating aren’t just about getting a broken heart. There are safety issues to consider when meeting strangers through a dating app. But, if you’re aware of online dating red flags for girls or boys, you’re far more likely to keep yourself safe.
You’re also more likely to have a healthy relationship full of green flags in the future.
Most of the big dating apps, like Tinder, Hinge, and Plenty of Fish, have safety measures in place for users. But that doesn’t mean that some bad eggs can slip through the cracks. According to Marketdata Enterprises, 10% of profiles on free dating sites are fake.
Online Dating Red Flags (Texting): Watch Out for These Top 5 Red Flags
Before you meet up with your date in person, you’ll likely text them for a while first. Luckily, you can spot some online dating red flags when texting pretty easily if you know what to look for. If you spot any of the traits below, you might want to avoid going on a date.
1. Overly Sexual Messages Early On
If your match opens the dialogue with an overly sexual remark, they may be after only one thing. This is fine if you’re looking for a quick hookup. But, if you want something more serious, then you might want to avoid them.
It also shows a lack of respect for your boundaries, prioritizing their sexual pleasure over your comfort. This doesn’t bode well for any future relationship.
2. Asking for Money
Your match should never ask you for any kind of money, including gift cards. If you’ve been chatting for a while and they ask you for cash, it’s probably a scam.
These scammers will never meet you in real life, and they’re probably not looking for any kind of relationship. Check for other signs that their dating profile is fake before writing them off completely. If they look like a model, have super high-quality photos, or don’t have any information on their profile, don’t engage. They’re probably a catfish.
3. Blunt and Dull Messages
If you’re familiar with online dating, you’ve probably been hit with a “hey” and nothing else. You might try to have a conversation with them, but to no avail. If they don’t have the motivation to chat with you before you meet, it probably won’t lead to anything more.
A dating expert will tell you that poor texting habits don’t mean that you won’t connect in person. But it’s up to you whether you put the effort in and push through a boring conversation.
4. Love Bombing
Love bombing means someone showers you with affection and compliments very early on in your relationship. It will feel exciting at first, but it could be a manipulation tactic to make you dependent on them.
If the person you’re texting on a dating app becomes too intense too fast, it’s time to back away. They’re likely trying to gain some control over you. If you fall for them, you’ll likely be in an unhealthy relationship.
5. Inconsistent Texts
If someone you’re chatting to goes silent for days or even weeks at a time, it’s a big red flag. They might come back without an explanation and act like nothing happened.
In these scenarios, it can be tempting to go back to normal. But it means they’re not reliable or have something to hide.
6 Obvious Red Flags When Meeting a Date In-Person
Meeting a date in person can feel daunting, but it can reveal more about them than you’ll get online. Some red flags only appear when you’re face to face. So, it’s important to look out for the signs when you’re on your date.
1. Late To Meet-Up
Being late to your date without explaining themselves is a big sign of disrespect. It doesn’t bode well for your future, as you’ll need mutual respect to thrive. If being late is a one-off, it’s more understandable. If they’re always running behind, they’re probably not serious about you.
2. They Don’t Look Like Their Profile
If your date looks majorly different from their profile photos, or you don’t even recognize them, it’s a red flag. They’re probably insecure and using old or edited photos, or they’re trying to trick you into dating them.
3. Haven’t Brought Their Wallet
If your date “forgets” their wallet or insists you pay for the bill, it could be a red flag. It indicates that they’re either irresponsible or they’re taking advantage of you and your generosity.
4. They Drink Excessively
There’s nothing wrong with enjoying some drinks on a date. But, if they start to look intoxicated or keep ordering more and more drinks, it’s a major warning sign. They likely engage in risky behavior, or they lack self-control.
5. Rude to Waiters
How your date treats service staff is a reflection of who they are. If they’re rude or condescending towards the wait staff, they’re probably a disrespectful person. They likely don’t have the traits you need in a potential partner.
6. They Avoid Personal Questions
When your date actively avoids sharing anything about themselves and won’t answer personal questions, it’s a major red flag. They may already have a partner or don’t want you to get to know them.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the red flags with online dating?
Red flags in online dating are behaviours that suggest your match might be dishonest or even unsafe to be around. They could ask for money, drop off the map, or send overly sexual messages early on.
It’s important to spot red flags early to spare yourself from hurt and pain in the long term. Some people only display red flags in person, so it’s also important to be wary of your first date.
How can you tell if someone is genuine on a dating app?
If you’re unsure whether your date is genuine, look for whether they’re consistent in their texts and behavior. Genuine profiles will usually have detailed profiles and plenty of photos with friends.
They’ll also take the time to send thoughtful replies and won’t want to rush into a relationship too fast.
Be wary of anyone who avoids answering personal questions or refuses to meet in person. They could be a catfish.
What are common scams in online dating?
Here are the most common online dating scams that you should watch out for as you navigate dating apps:
Romance scams: There are plenty of fake profiles that build emotional bonds and then ask for money in “emergencies.”
Catfishing: People pretend to be someone they are not by using someone else’s photos. This could be for monetary or sexual gain or because they’re insecure.
Phishing scams: In these types of scams, hackerssend malicious links to steal your personal information or hack your accounts.
Find Online Dates With DoubleList
Despite navigating online dating red flags, finding people online is one of the easiest ways to meet singles near you. Rather than traditional dating apps, DoubleList is a personal ads platform that allows you to outline what you’re looking for.
All you need to do is write your ad specifying who you are and what you’re looking for. Then, wait for the matches to roll in!
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