Online dating in Australia has so many positive aspects that there are millions and millions of users all over the country checking their profiles and setting up dates.
And why?
Because top notch online dating sites match people with their potential partners and meet their romantic needs quickly and efficiently.
But what about the negative aspects of looking for love online?
Today we review the top 3 perils of online dating Australians must know about to protect themselves and ensure a pleasant experience.
Peril #1: The Data You Provide Are Permanently Online
Not to sound paranoid or anything, but the data you post on online dating sites permanently remains online and available for potential misuse.
Identity theft risks aside, your information will most likely be sold or shared with data mining companies or other handlers of information online, and there isn’t much you can do about it.
As a result, you’ll be getting tons of spam, offering you various products for sale based on your preferences, life choices and interests.
What you can do, however, is very carefully decide which information you want to put out there, and which is better kept for yourself and shared face-to-face on a date.
Peril #2: Online Dating Scams
Although online dating is a multi-billion-dollar industry worldwide thanks to the results it produces to its clients, there are still scams of all sorts related to online dating.
From sites that offer next to nothing for hefty memberships, to fraudulent individuals posing as potential romantic partners. Beware of this pitfall because it can turn out to be the most unpleasant one.
There have been many instances of the latter, where individuals pretend to be interested in someone, investing weeks or even months into building trust and a ‘relationship’ with the victim, only to suffer a medical or urgent traveling emergency that results in asking for money, gifts or other forms of financial assistance.
Use your common sense and don’t reveal private information to unreliable sources, and stick to the major players in the game when it comes to choosing which online dating sites to join to reduce the risk of being scammed.
Peril #3: Dangers From Predators or Stalkers
Online dating in Australia is definitely a fun and exciting activity, because it provides anonymity. However, keep in mind that just like you can hide behind your avatar online, so can sexual predators and stalkers of all sorts.
The majority of people on online dating sites are not dangerous in any way, and are looking to have a good time or settle down, but there is always the risk of running into someone with “other priorities” on their mind.
In order to be safe out there, look for the red flags such as if an individual has very little information on their profile, no photos of any friends or family or if they seem to be isolated in any way.
Needless to say, predators can fake a normal life that they post online, and if you find yourself in a situation that is unpleasant or fishy, just walk away. No questions asked.