TLI Staff
New Delhi: Safer Internet Day is celebrated to encourage safer Internet use for all users, mainly children, and young people. The day is observed to raise awareness about the need of staying safe online. Since Valentine’s Day is around the corner and it’s the perfect opportunity to explore the world of dating and meet your Mr or Miss Right, it’s important to keep in mind certain tips to ensure your dating experience remains safe and special. Tinder shares 10 safe dating tips recommended by Yuvaa, a Gen Z driven youth media, impact and research organisation, to educate the youth on dating safety and create a safer and better internet for its members.
Dating Online:
Consent is everything: Decoding whether or not you have someone’s consent in an online setting isn’t always that straightforward. According to a Tinder survey, more than 65%** young adults are hesitant to withdraw, give or ask for consent. As a broad rule of thumb, always ask, never assume. Seek consent before taking a new step with clear questions like ‘Is this okay?’ or ‘How do you feel about doing this?’ Unless the other person responds with ‘Yes, I do’, hold off on your overtures.
Mutual respect: Do not use language that is offensive. This may include sexist, racist or homophobic remarks. Apps such as Tinder have built-in tech features such as ‘Are You Sure’ that will detect any language in messages you’re about to send that might be deemed inappropriate.
Keeping it pleasant: If you’re on the receiving end of a ‘goodbye’, take a step back. If someone rejects you, it most likely means they are not ready or they don’t envision a relationship with you. You have to let them go and respect their decisions. Don’t try to change their mind and remember that they don’t owe you anything.
Protect what’s yours: Never share ANY personal information with people you don’t know. Your identification number, address, and details about your daily routine (for eg. that you go to a certain gym) along with any info about your family and friends should be kept private.
Be wary of scams: Watch out for scammers who ask for financial help and anyone who won’t talk on a phone/video call — they may not be who they say they are. If someone is avoiding your questions or pushing for a serious relationship without meeting or getting to know you first, that’s probably a red flag.
Dating In Real Life
Don’t rush it: Before you shift things to IRL, take your time and get to know the other person. According to a recent Tinder survey, over 80%** young adults in India do a sense check before meeting an online match IRL. Kick things off with Tinder’s in-app chat to see if you vibe and if you do, try video chat to get to know each other better and see if sparks truly fly.
Right time, right place: For the first date, select somewhere that is comfortable, perhaps a public place. Some good spots include happening bars, good restaurants or chill cafes. Bad spots include your home, your date’s home or any secluded or private location. It’s also good to inform a friend or family member of your whereabouts if you’re going out with someone for the first time
Limit your drinks: Keep track of your drink at all times! Many substances that are slipped into drinks are odourless, colourless, and tasteless so only accept drinks poured or served directly by the bartender or waiter. It’s also good to know your limits – both alcohol and drugs can impair your judgment and alertness. Tip: If your date tries to pressure you to drink more than you’re comfortable with, abort (the date) and report (the match)!
Remember, comfort is key: Always do what is comfortable for you. And if it doesn’t feel right, it’s probably not right. If you’re in a taxi, share your ride with a friend or family member, and keep your phone charged or carry a power backup. Tip: If your date insists on accompanying you, say no and hold your ground.
Understand boundaries: The most important dating rule, be it online or IRL, is to establish clear boundaries on both sides and respect them. Give your date their space and be mindful of their physical and emotional boundaries. Don’t get too close to them if they seem uncomfortable, or talk about topics that make them feel visibly awkward.