Online dating safety tips

Last updated: 3 November 2026

Most people you meet online are genuine and just looking for someone to connect with. These simple habits help you stay safe, from your first message to your first date.

Before you meet

• Look for the verified badge. It means the person's selfie matched their profile photos. It isn't a background check, but it helps spot fake profiles.
• Chat in the app first. Be wary of anyone who rushes to move to another app or asks for your number straight away.
• Try a short video call. It's a quick way to check someone is who they say they are.
• Keep personal details private, like your home address, workplace, or daily routine, until you know someone well.
• Never send money, gift cards, crypto, OTPs or bank details to someone you met online, whatever the story.

Warning signs of a scam or fake profile

• They profess strong feelings very quickly.
• They always have an excuse not to video call or meet.
• They ask for money, investment tips, or help with an "emergency".
• Their story changes, or their photos look like a model's.
• They push you to click links or download another app.

If something feels off, it probably is. Report the profile in the app and stop replying.

On the date

• Meet somewhere public and busy for the first few dates. See our first date ideas.
• Tell a friend where you're going and who you're meeting.
• Arrange your own way there and home.
• Keep an eye on your drink and stay in control.
• Trust your instincts. You can leave at any time, for any reason.

How Meetista helps keep you safe

• Photo checks. Every photo is checked automatically before anyone can see it, and location data is stripped from photos.
• Selfie verification. Members can verify with a selfie that is compared with their photos.
• Private location. Others only see a distance like "3 km away", never where you are.
• Report and block. One tap, from any profile or chat. Reports are confidential and reviewed by our team.
• Adults only. Meetista is for people aged 18 and over. Read our child safety standards.

In an emergency

Call your local emergency number: 112 in India and the EU, 999 in the UK, 911 in the US and Canada, 000 in Australia. In India you can also report online fraud on the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal (cybercrime.gov.in) or by calling 1930.

To report a user or a safety concern to us, use Report in the app or email support@meetista.com.