Safe Dating Advice
Safety Tips for Online Dating
Meeting new people is exciting, but your safety should always come first. Whether you’re exchanging messages or meeting someone in person, it’s important to use good judgment and take precautions. While you can’t control other people’s behavior, you can take steps to protect yourself during your experience with Los Angeles Date Club.
Online Safety Tips
1. Never Send Money or Share Financial Information
Never send money to anyone, especially through wire transfers, even if they claim to be in an emergency. Wire transfers are like sending cash and are almost impossible to reverse. Never share financial information that could be used to access your accounts. If someone asks for money, report them immediately to us at hello@datelosangeles.net.
2. Protect Your Personal Information
Keep sensitive personal information such as your social security number, home or work address, or details about your routine private. If you are a parent, limit the information you share about your children. Avoid including details like their names, schools, or ages in your profile or early conversations.
3. Stay on the Platform
Keep communication on Los Angeles Date Club’s messaging platform until you’re comfortable. Some individuals with bad intentions might ask to move the conversation to text, email, or other messaging apps to bypass our safety filters. Staying on our platform helps us maintain a secure environment.
4. Be Cautious of Long-Distance and Overseas Relationships
Beware of people who claim to be from your area but are currently stuck elsewhere. Scammers often use this tactic and might ask for financial help to return home. If someone avoids meeting in person or dodges video calls, it could be a red flag. Always trust your instincts.
5. Report Suspicious or Offensive Behavior
If someone behaves inappropriately or violates our guidelines, report them. Examples of violations include:
Requests for money or donations
Harassment, threats, or offensive messages
Fraudulent profiles or spam
Inappropriate behavior during or after a meeting
You can report any concerns directly from their profile or messaging window, or by emailing hello@datelosangeles.net.
6. Protect Your Account
Use a strong password and be careful when accessing your account from public or shared computers. Los Angeles Date Club will never ask for your login details via email. If you receive such a request, report it immediately.
Meeting in Person
1. Take Your Time
Don’t rush into meeting someone in person. Take the time to get to know the other person by asking questions and looking out for any red flags. Before meeting, consider a phone or video call to ensure you feel comfortable.
2. Meet in Public Places
For your first few meetings, choose a public place. Avoid meeting at your home or theirs. If someone pressures you to go to a private location, end the date.
3. Share Your Plans with Friends or Family
Let someone know your plans before you go on a date. Share details like where you’re going and who you’re meeting, and make sure to keep your phone charged and with you at all times.
4. Control Your Transportation
Always be in control of how you get to and from your date. If you're driving yourself, have a backup plan in case you need to leave early, such as a ride-share app or a friend to pick you up.
5. Be Aware of Your Limits
Understand how drugs or alcohol affect you and don’t let anyone pressure you to consume more than you're comfortable with. If your date tries to influence you to take drugs or drink excessively, it’s okay to end the date.
6. Keep Your Drinks and Belongings Safe
Never leave your drink or personal items unattended. Ensure your drink is prepared by a bartender or server, and keep your personal belongings like your phone and wallet on you at all times.
7. Trust Your Instincts
If at any point you feel uncomfortable or unsafe, it’s okay to leave. Trust your instincts and don’t hesitate to ask for help from staff or others around you if necessary.
Sexual Health and Consent
1. Protect Yourself
Using condoms correctly can significantly reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Be aware that some STIs, like herpes or HPV, can still be passed through skin-to-skin contact. Vaccinations can also reduce the risk of some STIs.
2. Know Your Status
Regular STI testing is important since not all infections show symptoms. Stay informed about your status by getting tested regularly.
3. Communicate Openly
Before becoming intimate with a partner, have an open discussion about sexual health and STI testing. Respect each other’s boundaries, and remember that consent is key. If at any point your partner seems unsure or uncomfortable, stop immediately.
Additional Resources for Support
If you ever feel unsafe or need assistance, there are resources available to help:
RAINN’s National Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-656-HOPE (4673)
Planned Parenthood: 1-800-230-7526
National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
National Human Trafficking Hotline: 1-888-373-7888
National Sexual Violence Resource Center: 1-877-739-3895
Cyber Civil Rights Initiative: 1-844-878-2274
Remember, your safety is our priority, but it's important to be proactive in protecting yourself. If you experience any issues, don’t hesitate to report them to us at hello@datelosangeles.net.