As a leader in online dating, OkCupid recommends that its members follow a few basic tips while dating—both online and offline. Take a few minutes to read the following safety tips to keep your dating experience enjoyable and secure.

Fraud Awareness

NEVER share your personal or financial information with people you don’t know. Make sure to follow these guidelines at all times when meeting new people online:

DON’T ever send money to someone you meet online, especially by wire transfer. Keep in mind that wiring money is like sending cash: the sender has no protections against loss. Scammers often insist that people wire money, especially overseas, because it’s nearly impossible to reverse the transaction or trace the money. Don’t wire money to strangers or to someone who claims to be in an emergency (and wants to keep the request a secret).

Don’t give out your credit card number or bank info.

Don’t share your personal info, such as SSN, address, phone number, etc.

There are certain red flags to watch for that may indicate you’re dealing with a scammer. Be aware of anyone who…

Quickly asks to talk or chat on an outside email or messaging service

Vanishes mysteriously from the site, then reappears under a different name

Talks about “destiny” or “fate”

Claims to be recently widowed

Asks for your address under the guise of sending flowers or gifts

Makes an inordinate amount of grammar and/or spelling errors

Claims to be from U.S. but currently traveling, living or working abroad

Asks you for money

At OkCupid we care very much about our community and invest in fraud detection systems to protect you. However, even with these measures, we also need your help!

Report any suspicious activity or behavior to us at feedback@okcupid.com immediately. It’s better to be safe than sorry, especially when it comes to your money.