(ThySistas.com) Many of us want to be loved, and are actively looking for love. In the information age social media, and dating sites is the way many are choosing to connect. Life has become so busy for some with work, school and obligations that it may seem difficult to go out and physically date. This is what I’ve been told. Some people have awesome love stories of how they met online, and now they are married with a beautiful family.
Success stories are always encouraging, however we must remember that is not the total picture. Sistahs if you are going to use this medium to meet people it is important to be very careful. Online interactions can be very dangerous, and the truth is you never know who you are really talking to. Granted it helps if the person is willing to facetime with you, but you must still proceed with caution.
It is unfortunate that we live in such a dangerous society. However,
because this is the reality of our time we must protect ourselves. People have been set up for robberies, and in some instances murdered when meeting the person they encountered online. The robberies are becoming a recurring situation as the person is robbed when they show up for the date before entering the agreed upon establishment. It is not wise to have the “that could never happen to me” mentality. It’s better to be prepared than caught off guard. There are a few things you can do to be safe while dating and interacting online.
1. Never release your personal information (banking info or address) online to someone you don’t really know.
2. It may be wise to avoid intimate settings on a first date. Look for venues with high visibility, and a lot of people. It has even been recommended to meet near a police station. Some may decide against that location, but be sure there is a decent crowd.
3. Consider going on a double date, or group outing. Again, there is safety in numbers. It may not be safe to meet someone from a dating site alone.
4. If you decide to go alone inform a friend or loved one of where you will be. If may be wise to leave the persons contact information with a friend. If something should occur at least someone knew where you were headed, and with whom.
5. When meeting for the first time it is not wise to be picked up from your home, or go back to your place. If the person is a robber they may case your home on the first date, and rob you on the second. I know that may sound cynical, but a brother in Florida recently lost his life in this very scenario.
The internet is a part of the society we live in. Some would say the old way of meeting people is still best…go to functions…get out and get to know others. While that is a debate that can go on for hours if online dating is your choice just be careful. Sistahs we should be vigilant when we are out at all times. Yes, we can meet people that would harm us face to face. Yet, there is a mystery in talking to someone you can’t see. Live life to the fullest just be cautious as cyber time becomes real time.
Staff Writer; Christian Starr
May connect with this sister over at Facebook; https://www.facebook.com/christian.pierre.9809 and also Twitter; http://twitter.com/MrzZeta.