Apps to meet people have become very popular in recent years. Many people use these tools to meet new people and get to date someone. However, when dealing with people at a distance there are always risks that we must avoid. Therefore, in this article we will see how to protect your privacy and security when using dating apps.
Tinder, Badoo, Bumble and Happn are some of the most used apps when it comes to meeting people. What can you do to take advantage of them while protecting your security and privacy? Next, we will analyze some practical advice that will help you to preserve your security.
How to protect your privacy and security when using dating apps?
So how do you protect your privacy and security when using dating apps? First of all, you should keep in mind general tips that will help you in any dating app. Next, we leave you some ideas that are practical when using this type of tools.
- Do not share your location.
- Do not reveal financial information, such as your salary.
- Do not share your personal information, such as address, family names or daily activities.
- Try not to send intimate photos, and if you do, don't show your face.
- Do not link the app with another means of contact, such as social networks, email or phone number.
- Preferably, do not save your passwords on the platform.
Configure privacy in different applications
While it's true that many of the tools offered by dating apps rely on location, personal data, and security, it's also true that you can take steps to protect yourself. To achieve this, in addition to using common sense, also you can configure your privacy from the same applications.
Next, we will see how you can program the most common applications and thus protect yourself. The ideal is to find the balance between security and privacy. As a result, you'll be less likely to fall for deceptive offers, scams, or even potential abuse. Let's see.
tinder
tinder is one of the most recognized dating or meeting apps in the world. Once two people swipe right, they can 'Match', which allows them to start a conversation. Keep in mind that the app asks for a phone number and an email. This reduces the chance that others can create fake accounts, which is to your advantage.
A second step you can take to protect your security and privacy is disable the 'Show on Tinder' option. In this way, only the people with whom you have 'Matched' will have access to your profile. On the other hand, you can also block unwanted contacts, this way your profile will not be visible to them.
Finally, Tinder also offers a fairly safe option when it comes to meeting other people: check your criminal record. Yes, for a cost of $3,25, the app provides this type of information to its users. Although it may seem like an extreme measure, you can use it whenever you think it is necessary.
Badoo
Badoo is another app to meet people that many people use today. This app shows those who are close to you and has a function known as 'Encounters'. This feature notifies other users that you are nearby. One measure you can take to protect your security on Badoo is to disable the 'Encounters' feature..
On the other hand, If you use the Premium version of Badoo, you will be able to see other profiles without them knowing that you have visited them. Thus, it is easier for you to control who contacts you. On the other hand, something that will help you is verify your profile by sending a selfie to the platform. By doing so, you can put a limit on who sends you messages, allowing only verified users to write to you.
Bumble
Bumble It is another recognized application not only to find a partner, but also to make friends and create business contacts. One measure you can take if you are a Premium user is to use the 'incognito' option. This will allow only people you have 'Matched' with to see your profile.
Another option you have to protect your privacy and security is use the Safety and Wellness Center. There, you can find advice that will guide you when reporting an abuser or recovering from a deceptive action. In addition, it is possible to find communities to receive emotional support.
Happn
In the case of Happn, geolocation is the main tool to make it possible for people who have crossed paths to get to know each other. If both people are attracted, on Happn it is known as 'Crush'. So, One way to protect yourself is to choose when you share your location.. By turning it off, you can avoid places and times where you could be in danger.
On the other hand, you can also manage when to share your 'crossing places'. In this sense, you can program so that Happn is turned off at certain times, especially when you suspect that someone you know might see your profile. Also, it is sometimes prudent to enter the Privacy Controls in order to prevent other people in your same area from being able to see you through the 'Discovery' function.
How to protect your privacy and security when using apps to meet people: the first meeting
All in all, what if you already met someone and you are determined to meet this person? Although the first meeting could be very exciting, it also has its risks. Therefore, it is prudent that you take into account the following tips:
- Be patient! Don't rush a first meeting or get rushed into one.
- Schedule an appointment in a public place.
- Tell others where and who you will be with.
- Share your location in real time with someone you trust.
- Do not abandon your food and drinks.
- Do not get into an unknown vehicle.
In conclusion, any measure you take to protect your security and privacy when using apps to meet people is worth it. Within each application there are options and functions that you can activate or deactivate to protect any sensitive or personal information. Make the most of these help and enjoy meeting new people without running any danger.