Online Safety Tips and Advice for Pet Lovers

Perfectmatch.com is a great way to meet serious, committed adults looking for long-term relationships. It's also a great place to build loving and trusting friendships that can lead to lasting relationships. Use good judgment and be responsible when communicating with and/or meeting other members.

DON'T RUSH IT
Take your time. Capitalize on the anonymity advantage you enjoy on the site. Ask all the questions you need; get a feel for the type of person they are, where they are from, where they are going and what makes them tick. There is no rush to take the next step and speak - yet, there is something very romantic about getting to know each other through notes and letters.

CAUTION AND COMMON SENSE MUST PREVAIL
Don't send your personal email address or phone number to the first person that sends you an email. See DON'T RUSH IT.

GET A PHOTO
If the person you are interested in doesn't have an photo online, ask them to post a recent one. In the world of relationships, photos are a key step in the committing process.

WATCH FOR RED FLAGS
Does your match disappear for weeks on end? Are they calling you by the wrong name? Don't be played by a player. Pay attention to displays of anger, intense frustration or attempts to pressure or control you. Will they only meet you at midnight behind the bowling alley? Keep an eye out for red flags and trust your intuition!

MEET IN A SAFE PLACE
Always tell a good friend where you are going to meet someone for the first time. You should never arrange for your date to pick you up at home. Get there on your own, meet in a public place at a time with many people around. When the date is over, leave on your own as well. A familiar book store, or coffee shop, at a busy time is always a good plan.

BRING OR BORROW A CELL PHONE
If you have to reach out and touch someone, like 911, be prepared. Never be at the mercy of a public telephone. If you feel things are getting out of hand, one click on a speed dial could be the best call you've ever made. It's all about being prepared.

HAVE AN ESCAPE PLAN
Never do anything you feel unsure about. If you feel uncomfortable with your date, use your best judgment to diffuse the situation and move on down the road. Excuse yourself long enough to call a friend for advice, ask someone for help wherever you are, or simply slip out the back and drive away. If you feel you are in danger, immediately call the police. See BRING OR BORROW A CELL PHONE. It's always better to be safe than sorry. Never worry or feel embarrassed about your behavior. Remember, your safety is much more important than one person's opinion of you.

While it is true that trollers, cheaters and people misrepresenting themselves are on the internet, you'll also find them in nightclubs, at work, through introductory services or at any fancy party about town. Regardless of where you meet someone, dating mandates you to be careful. Use your head, follow your heart, and some fun. And hey…be careful out there when looking for your perfect match!



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