Stay Safe While Dating
Essential safety tips for online dating, with special focus on LGBTQ+ community protection.
Important Safety Reminder
LGBTQ+ individuals face a 69% harassment rate in online dating. These tips can help reduce your risk, but always trust your instincts and prioritize your safety above all else.
Comprehensive Safety Guide
Essential safety practices organized by category for easy reference.
Profile Safety
Verify Profile Photos
highUse reverse image search to check if photos appear elsewhere online.
Check Social Media Consistency
highLook for consistent information across different social platforms.
Watch for Limited Photos
mediumBe cautious of profiles with only 1-2 photos or professional-looking shots.
Verify Location Claims
mediumAsk specific questions about local places and landmarks.
Communication Safety
Start with App Messaging
highKeep conversations on the dating platform initially.
Avoid Sharing Personal Info
highDon't share your last name, address, workplace, or financial information.
Watch for Love Bombing
mediumBe wary of excessive flattery or emotional intensity early on.
Trust Your Instincts
highIf something feels off, it probably is. Don't ignore red flags.
Meeting Safety
Meet in Public Places
highAlways choose busy, well-lit public venues for first meetings.
Tell Someone Your Plans
highShare your date details with a trusted friend or family member.
Arrange Your Own Transportation
highDrive yourself or use your own rideshare. Don't get picked up.
Stay Sober
mediumLimit alcohol consumption and never leave drinks unattended.
LGBTQ+ Specific Safety
Control Your Coming Out
highOnly share your LGBTQ+ status when you feel safe and ready.
Research Date Locations
mediumChoose LGBTQ+-friendly venues and neighborhoods when possible.
Have an Exit Strategy
highAlways have a plan to leave safely if you feel uncomfortable.
Connect with Community
mediumUse LGBTQ+ dating platforms and communities for additional safety.
Red Flags to Watch For
Warning signs that indicate potential danger or deception.
Refuses Video Calls
Won't do video chats despite repeated requests
Asks for Money
Requests financial help or investment opportunities
Limited Photos
Has very few photos or they all look professional
Pushes for Quick Meeting
Wants to meet immediately without building rapport
Inconsistent Stories
Details about their life don't add up or change
Avoids Specific Questions
Deflects when asked about local places or details
Love Bombing
Excessive flattery and emotional intensity too early
No Social Media Presence
Claims to have no social media or very limited presence
Create Your Safety Plan
Follow these steps to create a comprehensive safety plan for every date.
Create a Safety Plan
Before any date, create a detailed plan including location, time, and expected return.
Share Your Plan
Send your date details to at least one trusted friend or family member.
Set Check-in Times
Establish specific times to check in with your safety contact.
Know Emergency Contacts
Have local emergency numbers saved and easily accessible.
Trust Your Instincts
If something feels wrong, leave immediately. Your safety comes first.
LGBTQ+ Safety Resources
Important contacts and resources for LGBTQ+ community members.
Trans Lifeline
Crisis support for transgender people
LGBT National Hotline
24/7 support for LGBTQ+ individuals
GLAAD
Media advocacy and LGBTQ+ resources
The Trevor Project
Crisis intervention for LGBTQ+ youth
Ready for AI-Powered Protection?
These tips are essential, but Guardr's AI can automate many safety checks for you.