Maintain confidentiality with your full name. While conversing with someone online, avoid using a username that includes your first and last name. Instead, opt for your first name or create a playful account username and vanity email address with a flirty nickname. Embrace an air of mystery as you become comfortable with the other person.

Segregate online dating from social media. Refrain from using photos from your social media accounts in your online dating profile. Why? They can be easily traced back to you. Likewise, avoid linking any online dating sites to your social channels. This is one of the quickest ways for someone to trace your identity and gather information about you, your friends, and your family.

Get a glimpse of your date through video chat. Did you know that Adore now offers a video chat feature? Members with verified profiles or upgraded memberships can't get enough of it! It provides an easy way to meet virtually before arranging in-person dates and offers a secure way to spend time together between dates. You don't need to share your email, phone number, or social media handle—just enjoy quality face-to-face time with new acquaintances. For your safety, here are a few key points to remember while using the video chat:

-Refrain from sharing any personal information.

-Be mindful of your background and avoid displaying private information in your video frame.

-Although we don't record your video conversations, it's important to note that no video chat platforms can prevent members from recording their video chats.

-Address uncomfortable conversations proactively and take appropriate measures to block and report anyone who makes you feel uneasy. Our platform offers various anonymous reporting options to ensure that no one else is subjected to the individual's inappropriate behavior.

Exercise caution and refrain from sending photos right away. Take the time to get to know the person you're chatting with more thoroughly. Additionally, avoid sharing your phone number and utilize the chat features instead. When conversing with someone, be mindful of describing your location, recent events you've attended, your workplace, or any other details that might reveal your whereabouts and potentially be recognized by them.

Never provide anyone with money or financial information online. It's as simple as that! This principle applies not only to online dating but also to all your online activities. If someone requests your financial information, please use the report function on our platform.

During the initial dates, keep private details private. While it's exciting to get to know someone new and share personal information about yourself and your immediate circle, it's prudent to keep private details to yourself during those early stages. This includes your last name, address, social media handles, and frequented spots. Only disclose such information once you've built enough trust with the other person.

Your residence and living arrangements are private. Until you know someone better and can trust them, avoid giving out your physical address or inviting them to your home. If you decide to meet in person, ensure that it takes place in a popular, public location. Consider having a friend accompany you or share your date's location with a trusted friend.

Do your research! Taking a proactive approach is the best defense. Before your date, conduct a quick online search to gather information. If you come across any questionable details or have a bad feeling, trust your intuition and cancel the date as soon as possible.

Report any suspicious or offensive behaviors. If you ever feel uncomfortable or disrespected while interacting with someone on the dating site or during an in-person meeting, make sure to report them through the appropriate channels within the respective app or platform where you connected initially. At Adore, you can 'Report a Member' directly from their profile.

Choose the relevant reason from the list and provide a clear description of the behavior. Additionally, you can also block the member, which will prevent them from communicating with you and viewing your profile.

Inform someone about your plans. It's crucial to share the details of your date with a trusted friend or family member—where and when you're meeting, the establishment's phone number, and so on. There's no such thing as too many details when it comes to your safety.

Ensure your cell phone is fully charged and has location settings enabled. Before, during, and after your date, make sure your phone has sufficient battery life to contact anyone if needed. Keep your location settings on to allow a trusted family member or friend to track your whereabouts. If you're often on the go before a date, consider investing in a rechargeable cell phone case or a portable charger to always be prepared.

Take precautionary measures for self-defense. While some may consider it excessive, carrying pepper spray or Mace in your purse can be a good move in case of an attack. Remember, it's not a foolproof solution, but it's better to be safe than sorry.

Consider making your first date a double date. If possible, go out with at least one other friend or couple to keep an eye on each other. This ensures that someone can intervene if a date rape drug is administered or if one person appears to be excessively intoxicated. It also provides an opportunity to seek a second opinion if you start feeling uncomfortable during the date.

Arrange your own transportation to and from the date. Drive your own car, use public transportation, call a friend, or utilize a rideshare app to ensure you have control over your transportation. Don't accept a ride from your date or walk back with them, as it would reveal your home address and might lead to unexpected circumstances.

Always meet in a public place. When planning your first in-person date, remember to select a public location. If you feel pressured to meet in a private setting, emphasize the importance of meeting in public for the initial couple of dates. If your date continues to push for a private location, reconsider meeting in person and, if necessary, end the conversation entirely.

Avoid meeting an online date in their car, in a parking lot, at a motel/hotel, or any location where you can't safely and quickly leave if needed. If at any point you feel uncomfortable, trust your instincts and remove yourself from the situation without hesitation. You may also consider carrying a can of pepper spray, just in case.

Be observant and attentive. Pay attention to the body language and facial expressions of the person you're meeting.

Always keep an eye on your food and drinks. Never leave your food or drinks unattended. If you need to step away from the table, place a napkin over your plate. Don't hesitate to request a new drink if you notice any suspicious behavior from anyone in or around your vicinity. Date rape drugs can be administered without altering the flavor or appearance of your drink. The best way to stay safe is by maintaining constant vigilance over your drink.

Stay sober or monitor your alcohol intake. Consider abstaining from alcohol or limiting your consumption. Becoming impaired increases your vulnerability and puts you in an unsafe situation.

Carry enough cash or a credit card to ensure a safe journey back home. Unexpected situations can arise, and having sufficient cash or electronic funds available will provide peace of mind during your date.

Trust your instincts. If your gut tells you that something is wrong, listen to it. If you suspect that someone has lied to you, chances are you're right. Overlooking red flags may lead to regret later on. It's not worth taking a risk by trying to make a situation feel right. Leave if you feel uncomfortable and trust your intuition.

Have an exit strategy prepared. Don't hesitate to end a date prematurely if the other person is making you uncomfortable in any way. Before meeting for the date, come up with a plan for an early exit and practice what you'll say if you decide that the person is too creepy and you want to leave early. It's better to spend less time with someone who gives you a bad feeling and get out of the situation as soon as possible.

Report any suspicious or offensive behaviors. If you ever feel uncomfortable or disrespected while interacting with someone on a dating site or during an in-person meeting, make sure to report them through the appropriate channels provided by the respective app where you initially connected. Adore members can 'Report a Member' directly from the member's profile. 

Choose the relevant reason from the options and provide a clear description of the behavior. Additionally, you have the option to block the member, which will prevent them from communicating with you or viewing your profile.

Respect your values and boundaries. This includes not going home with someone, not inviting them into your home, and refraining from engaging in sexual activities before you are ready. Never let anyone pressure you into doing something you're uncomfortable with at any time.

If you're not feeling a love connection, it's okay to be honest. 

-Mutual feelings are essential. If you're simply not interested in seeing someone again, be upfront and let them know right away. If you feel that they won't take it seriously or continue to pursue you, leave the date without making any follow-up plans. Don't hesitate to block their number or profile if necessary.

-If you're not feeling it, don't be afraid to disconnect. After expressing your lack of interest, it's acceptable to stop responding to calls or emails. Continually responding with "no" only encourages the other person and might give them the impression that you're interested. They may even view it as a challenge. Don't be afraid to disconnect completely—it's not rude; it's a clear signal to back off.