Your guide to safe online dating and meeting
new people.

Creating a secure account

To kick off your online dating safety journey, it's important to set up a secure account on Jaumo. This goes for any other social apps you're using too. Follow these tips to protect your personal info:

1. Choose a strong password: Pick a password that's unique and hard to guess. Avoid using common phrases or personal details.
2. Watch out for phishing attempts: Know that we'll never ask you for your username and password via email. If you get an email like that, please report it right away.
3. Report suspicious behavior: If you come across profiles or messages that raise concerns about someone's behavior, report them to us. There's a report feature on every Jaumo user profile.

Spotting fakes and scammers

Unfortunately, scammers and fake profiles exist in online dating and on every social network. Stay alert and watch for these warning signs:

1. Unrealistic profiles: Be skeptical of profiles that seem too good to be true. If someone's exceptionally attractive or their life story sounds too perfect, proceed with caution.
2. Inconsistent information: Look for inconsistencies in someone's profile or messages. Stolen photos or contradicting details could point to a fake profile.
3. Requests for financial help: Be cautious of people who claim to be in trouble and ask for money. Never send money to someone you've met online, no matter what their story is.
4. Avoiding in-person meetings: If someone consistently refuses to meet in person or won't do video calls or phone calls, that could be a sign they're hiding something.
5. Evasive behavior with personal questions: If someone consistently dodges your questions or redirects the conversation when you dig deeper, that's a red flag.
6. Suspicious language patterns: Scammers often use generic language patterns and phrases. Watch out for phrases like "God-fearing" or "sincere man/woman" — they're commonly used by scammers.

Chatting safely

Be mindful when you're getting to know people on dating apps. Most strangers have good intentions, but unfortunately there are a few bad apples in every social network. Don't worry though — here are some tips to keep yourself safe:

1. Use Jaumo's messaging system: Chat with people through Jaumo first until you trust them. That way, your messages are protected by Jaumo's safety filters.
2. Keep your info private: Don't share personal details like your social security number, address, or info about your daily routine. Protect your privacy until you really trust someone.
3. Be careful with info about your kids: If you have kids, be cautious about sharing info about them in your profile or early messages. Don't give out their names, school info, or other identifying details.
4. Be careful with photos: Photos can help build a connection, but be mindful of what you share. Avoid sending explicit or compromising photos that could be misused.
5. Report suspicious behavior: If you encounter suspicious behavior or receive inappropriate messages, report it to Jaumo's support team right away. Your help can protect others from potential harm.

Safe dating

You've finally met someone on a dating app and you're ready to meet up in person? That's awesome — but it's important to keep your safety in mind! Here are some tips to help you stay safe on your first date:

1. Choose a public place: Meet in a busy, public spot for the first few dates. Avoid meeting at your home, their home, or other private locations.
2. Tell a friend or family member: Before meeting someone for the first time, let a friend or family member know about your plans. Share details like the location, time, and the person's profile info. Keep your phone charged and within reach.
3. Arrange your own transportation: Take control of how you get to and from the meeting spot. Grab a taxi, use a ride-sharing service, or have a trusted friend pick you up. Don't rely on your date for transportation during the first few meetups.
4. Trust your gut: If you feel uncomfortable at any point during the date, it's totally okay to end it early. Listen to your instincts and prioritize your safety.
5. Watch your drinks and personal belongings: Always keep an eye on your drink and only accept beverages from the bartender or server. Don't leave your personal belongings unattended — they might contain sensitive information.

LGBTQ+ safety

For LGBTQ+ individuals, it's important to be aware of potential risks and legal considerations when traveling to other countries. Some countries may have specific laws that target LGBTQ+ people. Keep these guidelines in mind:

1. Research local laws: Before heading to a new destination, research the local laws and regulations regarding LGBTQ+ rights. Understand the legal protections, if any, that apply to individuals based on their sexual orientation.
2. Disable location sharing: If you're in an area where your safety could be at risk, consider adding the name of the nearest major city instead. This protects your privacy and reduces the chance of a potential trap. We never share your exact location.
3. Support LGBTQ+ organizations: Consider donating to organizations like ILGA World that conduct research and provide support for LGBTQ+ rights. Stay informed about the latest laws on sexual orientation and support initiatives that promote equality.

More online dating tips

Here are a few extra tips to make sure your online dating experience stays safe and enjoyable:

1. Take your time: Don't rush into meeting someone or sharing personal info. Take the time to get to know the person and build trust before taking the next steps.
2. Stay in control: Prioritize your own well-being and boundaries. If someone's pressuring you into something you're not comfortable with, set your boundaries and end the interaction if needed.
3. Stay sober: Be aware of how drugs or alcohol affect your judgment and awareness. Avoid excessive drinking or substance use during dates — it can seriously impair your decision-making.
4. Keep conversations in the app: For safety and privacy, keep using the dating app's messaging platform until you're comfortable moving the conversation somewhere else.
5. Be aware of your surroundings: Whether you're meeting someone in person or chatting online, always be aware of your surroundings. Trust your instincts and take the precautions you need to stay safe.

By following these online dating safety guidelines, you can confidently navigate the world of online dating. Remember to prioritize your safety and trust your instincts throughout the process. Happy dating and have fun meeting new people!

Summary

Online dating and meeting new people can be an exciting experience, but it's important to put your safety first. With the tips and guidelines in this comprehensive guide, you can confidently navigate the world of online dating, make new friends, and protect yourself from potential risks. Trust your instincts, report suspicious behavior, and prioritize your well-being.

Happy online dating!