Online Dating Safety For Over 80s

Online dating can be safer than meeting a stranger at a dance, because you can chat for as long as you like before deciding to meet. A bit of common sense goes a long way. Here are our tips for staying safe, online and in person.

Staying Safe Online

• Trust your instincts. If something feels wrong, you do not owe anyone an explanation. Stop replying, or block them.
• Keep your home address, phone number and banking details private until you truly know someone.
• Check your photos do not show your house number, your numberplate or other family members.
• Never send money, gift cards or bank details to someone you have met online, however sad their story.
• Do not let anyone hurry you into sharing more photos or information than you are comfortable with.
• Be wary of anyone who declares their love before you have even met. Real feelings take time.

Meeting In Person

When you are ready to meet, a little planning lets you relax and enjoy yourself:

• Meet in daylight somewhere public and busy, such as a cafe or club bistro, for the first few dates.
• Tell a friend or family member who you are meeting, where and when, and what time you expect to be home.
• Make your own way there and back, by car, taxi or with family, rather than accepting a lift on a first date.
• Take your mobile, charged, and agree a code word with a friend in case you want an excuse to leave early.
• If you ever feel unsafe, leave, ask staff for help, or call 000 in an emergency.

Your date is probably just as nervous as you are, so be kind, take it slowly and have fun.

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