Online dating offers convenience and heightens the chance of romantic partners meeting, however, it can also increase the potential threat of encountering a stalker.
Stay cautious in the online dating world and look out for 5 signs the person you’re dating online is a ‘potential stalker’, according to the following advice shared by a privacy expert. Although most online connections end in finding someone, or enjoying a handful of dates, it’s not guaranteed you’ll find the love of your life on dating apps.
Signs of a potential stalker, according to privacy expert
Online dating on apps like Tinder, Hinge, and social media platforms has revolutionized the world of relationships and dating, and while there are many benefits to meeting someone virtually, some risks can also occur.
A privacy expert at EarthWeb, named Trevor Cooke, explains what signs to look out for when dating and advises how to stay safe when online.
Unfortunately, the threat of encountering a stalker is real, and it’s crucial to remain vigilant and trust your instincts when navigating the world of online dating.
Trevor Cooke explains the first red flag to look out for includes overly persistent behavior. Persistence in showing interest can quickly turn when it becomes excessive. If your match is constantly messaging you after you have tried to implement space, this could indicate an unhealthy obsession.
You should be cautious of invasive questions. If your date starts probing into deeply personal areas too soon, this can signal an attempt to gather information for controlling or manipulative purposes.
Erratic mood swings or unpredictable actions are also significant warning signs. Behavior shifts, or dramatic reactions to minor issues, can imply instability and lead to dangerous, volatile behavior.
More digital romance dangers
A potential stalker may try to dictate or closely monitor your activities. Expert Trevor Cooke states that any behavior that seeks to limit your autonomy or isolate you from friends and family is a major red flag.
Showing up to places uninvited is one of the most overt stalker signs. This could indicate they are tracking your movements, which is a clear invasion of privacy and a potential threat to your safety.
The privacy expert adds: “Understanding and recognizing the early signs of stalking behavior in a dating context is crucial for personal safety. Always prioritize your well-being and never ignore your intuition. Your safety comes first.”
Expert advice on Staying Safe
To avoid dangerous situations while using dating apps, privacy expert Trevor Cooke advises people to consider the following recommendations.
Firstly, trust your instincts. If something feels off, trust your gut. It’s better to be cautious than to ignore potential warning signs.
Keep personal information private. You should avoid sharing detailed personal information with your date too soon. Protect your home address, workplace, and routines until you are sure of the other person’s intentions.
Meeting in public places for the initial dates is a good idea to stay safe. Choose public settings where you can easily leave if necessary. Expert advice suggests avoiding secluded or private locations.
Share your plan and inform a trusted friend or family member about your date plans. Let people know where you are going and who you are meeting.
Prepare a safety plan. You should be prepared with a plan to exit a date quickly if you feel uncomfortable. Ensure emergency contacts are readily accessible on your phone, and consider using safety apps that can alert friends if you’re in danger.
Trevor Cooke is a privacy expert at EarthWeb. His personal mission is to help keep consumers safe by keeping them informed of privacy tips and common online scams. EarthWeb helps discover the best research guides and resources for tech and online privacy.
