Online Dating Safety Tips For South Africans Over 40

Most people you meet online are exactly who they say they are. A few sensible habits help you spot the ones who are not, so you can relax and enjoy getting to know someone.

While You Are Chatting

• Keep your details to yourself. Hold back your surname, home address, workplace, ID number and banking details until you know and trust someone. Never share banking details with someone from a dating site.
• Use the site's messaging. It keeps your number and email private. Be cautious if someone pushes to move to WhatsApp or another app very early on.
• Watch out for money requests. Anyone asking for money, airtime, vouchers or crypto, for whatever reason, is almost certainly a scammer. See our guide to spotting dating scammers.
• Check before you meet. A quick video call is a simple way to confirm someone is who they say they are.
• Mind your photos. Avoid pictures that show your house number, street, car registration or your children's school uniform.
• Trust your gut. If something feels off, stop replying and use the block or report options.

Your First Meeting

• Meet somewhere busy and public, such as a coffee shop, restaurant or shopping centre.
• Tell a friend where you are going, who with and when you expect to be back.
• Get yourself there and back, and keep your home address private until you know the person well.
• Make sure your phone is charged and has data or airtime.
• Keep an eye on your drink and keep a clear head.
• If you feel uncomfortable, leave. Ask staff for help if you need it, and in an emergency call the SAPS on 10111.

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