Tinder, Bumble, OkCupid, Match or Grindr- swipe right on dating apps, but check hidden part

Online dating apps like Tinder, Bumble, OkCupid, Match and Grindr are very popular, but before you actually swipe right, you should know about the hidden parts of the experience and check out certain tips. A lot has changed in these digital times, especially during the pandemic, which halted physical meetings and outings and pushed the public towards the Internet for almost all purposes, from ordering groceries to meeting new people online. Here, we are talking about online dating apps, whose popularity skyrocketed over the last year or so. Online dating apps have made it easy to connect with new people - to drum up new business or find love.

However, if you are checking out online dating apps like Tinder, Bumble, OkCupid, Match and Grindr, know that the hidden parts of the entire experience holds many dangers and you really must check out some tips before moving ahead - swiping right, that is. The hidden aspect of online dates apps is that it may well come with several issues such as identity theft, online bullying, stalking, online dating abuse, catfishing, violence and even scams. Imagine meeting someone for the first time, whom you met online and know nothing about- risk just accelerates to another level.

No doubt, online dating apps are a part and parcel of a new culture and quite fruitful too as is clear from their success, but before doing anything make sure your online dating experience is safe. So, Tinder, Bumble, OkCupid, Match and Grindr are all right, but know these safety tips before you swipe right on online dating apps.

Use a different photo from other social media

Dating app contact should remain limited to that only. Using the same photo as from your Facebook or Instagram can help anyone on the dating app to find you on other social media platforms using reverse image search. It is quite easy to find out who you are from your photo- really!

Skip providing personal details

Make sure to not include your last name, contact information, nicknames, or social networking handles in your online dating profile as keeping your personal information to the minimum ensures that no one can find you easily in the real world or where you live. This will ensure things really don't get creepy.

Use the dedicated app only

When you are having a conversation with the potential date, keep that within the dating app while avoiding sharing a personal contact number or other social media details to contact you. This may be inconvenient for you, but this is the safest way as in case something doesn’t work out, you don’t have to worry that person will contact you again.

Want to call? Use Google Phone Number

After a point, you will surely want to talk over a call. In this case, instead of sharing your personal contact number, consider acquiring a Google phone number and forwarding it to your phone. It's simple. Once you've logged in to Google Voice, all you have to do is select your area code and an available phone number.

Take precautions if planning to meet in-person

Avoid revealing your precise address to others, rather, meet at a very public location. Idea is to make sure there are a lot of people around like in a restaurant. No, movie theatre does not qualify, it is dark in there. Also, you should inform a close friend or family member of your whereabouts and expected return time. If something goes wrong, at least they will have some information to try and locate you.

Online Dating apps are a savior for many, but they can land you in trouble if you don’t follow the safety tips. Hence, be safe and enjoy!