tvContacts Online Dating Safety Advice

Most people using these type of services are sincere and seeking only to make contact with people of similar interests with the intention of corresponding or forming genuine friendships or relationships.

However, remember that you are solely responsible for your own safety and well being and that caution should always be applied when arranging to meet people who you do not really know; therefore, the following points of advice should always be observed:

• Do not disclose your surname, address or any personal details during the course of e-mail or chatroom exchanges with other members.
• Do not disclose your phone number until you are confident to do so.
• Do not arrange contacts or meetings until you feel confident to do so.
• Always arrange first few meetings with each contact in a public place, during the day and in a situation where you could leave safely, if you choose to do so.
• Tell a family member or friend where you are going and what time you are expected to return.
• Take with you some means of communication - i.e: mobile phone etc., so that you can make contact with someone, should the need arise.
• Do not tolerate any form of unreasonable behaviour or persistant harassment from contacts. Seek the assistance of the police, if necessary, who would apply confidentiality.