The internet can be an incredible resource for maintaining long-distance relationships, but it also comes with risks. Your online safety starts with educating yourself and your significant other on how to protect your privacy, recognize red flags, and make smart decisions when meeting someone in person for the first time.
Below are essential safety tips to keep in mind when using the internet to interact with or meet people.
Before You Meet in Person
Meeting someone new—whether for friendship or romance—always involves some level of risk. While there’s no way to guarantee absolute safety, you can minimize risks by taking the following precautions.
1. Use an Anonymous Email Account
Avoid using your full name in email addresses, social media, or chat usernames. Set up a separate email account just for dating or meeting new people. Services like Gmail and ProtonMail offer free, anonymous accounts.
2. Take Your Time
Rushing into a relationship, especially online, can make you overlook important details. Pay attention to inconsistencies in what the other person says. If their story, personality, or behavior changes drastically over time, trust your gut.
3. Verify Their Identity
- Ask for a video call. Someone hesitant to show their face could be hiding something.
- Look them up online. Reverse image search their photos to see if they appear elsewhere.
- Check their phone number. If they refuse to share a number or insist on using only apps like Telegram, it may be a red flag.
4. Call at Unexpected Times
Surprise calls can reveal a lot. Background noises, distractions, or their reaction to an unplanned call can give clues about their real-life situation.
5. Ask About Their Past Relationships
If they avoid discussing past relationships or seem secretive, be cautious. A simple question like “What would your ex say about you?” can reveal a lot.
6. Get a Mailing Address (Safely)
Sending a letter or postcard to a neutral address (like a P.O. Box) can confirm if their given location is legitimate. If the mail is returned or they refuse to share an address, be wary.
First In-Person Meeting
If you’re ready to take your long-distance relationship from virtual to reality, plan carefully for your first in-person meeting.
1. Communicate Expectations
Before meeting, talk openly about what the meeting means to both of you. Make sure you’re on the same page about whether it’s casual, serious, or just a first step.
2. Meet in a Public Place
For first-time meetings, never go somewhere secluded. Choose:
- A busy café, restaurant, or mall
- A public park during daylight hours
- An event where other people will be around
3. Arrange Your Own Transportation
Having control over your transportation means you can leave whenever you need to. Avoid relying on your date to pick you up or drop you off.
4. Bring a Friend or Use a Double Date
Even if it feels awkward, having a friend nearby (or on standby) can make a huge difference in safety and comfort.
5. Keep Your Drinks & Food Safe
Never leave drinks or food unattended. Drink tampering happens more often than people realize, and even a single sip can put you at risk.
6. Let Someone Know Your Plans
Before you meet, tell a trusted friend or family member:
- The name and contact info of who you’re meeting
- Where you’re going and what time you plan to return
- A check-in time when you’ll text or call them
Online Privacy & Cybersecurity
Even if your LDR or online relationship is well-established, online safety should still be a priority.
1. Protect Your Personal Information
- Avoid sharing your full name, address, or workplace in public profiles.
- Use different usernames across platforms to prevent being easily tracked.
- Be mindful of your social media settings—limit what strangers can see.
2. Use Strong Passwords & Two-Factor Authentication
Long-distance couples often share streaming accounts, apps, or private messages. Protect your online accounts with unique, strong passwords and two-factor authentication (2FA).
3. Be Cautious About Webcam Use
- Webcams can be hacked. Cover your camera when not in use.
- Be careful about what’s visible in the background of video calls.
4. Watch Out for Catfishing & Online Scams
Scammers target long-distance relationships by pretending to be someone they’re not. Red flags include:
- Asking for money—no matter how convincing the story is
- Refusing video calls or always having an excuse
- Being vague about their location or past
If something feels off, trust your instincts.
Cyberstalking & Online Harassment
Long-distance relationships rely heavily on digital communication, which can sometimes lead to unwanted or obsessive behavior.
1. Recognize the Signs of Cyberstalking
- Excessive messaging, especially after you stop responding
- Monitoring your activity on social media or tracking your location
- Creating fake accounts to follow or contact you
2. What to Do If You’re Being Harassed
- Block and report the person on all platforms
- Document all messages in case you need to involve law enforcement
- Change your online privacy settings to prevent further contact
Staying Safe When Traveling for a Visit
Visiting your long-distance partner involves extra safety precautions, especially if you’re traveling far from home.
1. Share Your Travel Plans
Before traveling, let friends or family know:
- Your flight or train details
- Where you’re staying
- Your partner’s contact information
2. Book Your Own Accommodations
If possible, book a hotel or Airbnb instead of staying with your partner, especially if it’s your first time meeting.
3. Keep Emergency Contacts Handy
Save important numbers, including:
- Local emergency services
- Your hotel or Airbnb host
- A trusted friend or family member
4. Trust Your Instincts
If something doesn’t feel right, have a backup plan to leave. Always listen to your gut.
Long distance relationships can be incredibly rewarding, but they require a unique set of precautions to stay safe. Whether you’re dating online, preparing for a first visit, or maintaining a long-term LDR, your safety should always come first.
- Stay cautious with personal information
- Trust your instincts and take your time
- Make safety a priority when meeting for the first time
- Use cybersecurity best practices to protect yourself online
Distance doesn’t have to mean danger, you can enjoy your LDR while staying smart and safe.