The single lesbian guide to safe online dating

The world wide web has made it super easy for women to connect with one another using just a computer and an internet connection. The fact that you can "date" from the comfort of your home doesn't mean that you should be any less vigilant than if you were dating in the traditional and old fashioned way.

Online dating safety tips for single women

Use a different email account than your regular one to maintain your privacy and to keep messages organized.
There are a number of free online email accounts you can use (Yahoo!, Gmail, Hotmail, etc.) to register with matchmaking services. Should you have a bad experience with another member, the ability to easily discard a free email account will also make it easier to shut out unwanted mail and switch to a new account. Be sure the online dating sites you use have the option of blocking email from those members you don't feel are a match. If you are being harassed you need to contact your site customer support and let them know about the abusive member.

Request a current photograph and respond in kind.
If you should meet in person, having a photo to compare to the real thing is a plus and it's nice to have a face to go with the text exchanges. Get more information. Learn as much as you can about your potential love match. Where did she grow up? Does she live close to her parents? What are her favorite hobbies? Where does she see herself in ten years? Meeting your online date in the offline world

You've finally decided to bite the bullet and meet the woman you have been emailing and chatting with online. Here are some helpful safety tips for going offline with your new date.

Offline dating tips

Use your cell rather than your home phone when exchanging telephone numbers.
Your home phone number can be used to find your home address with a simple online search. If you need to use your home phone number to make calls, have your telephone company block your number so it won't show up on caller ID.

Choose a public place for your first face to face meeting and go in your own car.
A locally gay/lesbian owned (support lgbt businesses) coffee house is usually a good option for your initial meeting since it's neutral territory and will have other customers. It's also relatively inexpensive and condusive to conversation. Having your car also gives you an easy escape should your date not turn out as you'd planned.

Tell a friend or family member about your date, where you'll be meeting and when you expect to return.

Keep the alcoholic beverages to a minimum.
Drinking a glass or two of wine may be good for loosening up but don't go overboard. You want to be alert so you can get to know each other better. Hold off on inviting your new gal pal over to your house on the first date.

You've probably heard the joke about lesbians, u-hauls and quick courtships but in this case, since you're still in the getting to know each other stage, it's a good thing to wait to see how things progress. Pay attention to your gut instinct. If she just doesn't "feel right" than she probably isn't. A woman's intuition is nothing to ignore.

Keep your personal information to yourself until you are sure of the woman and her intentions.
Safeguard your identity. The internet makes it easy for lesbians to connect but it also makes it easier for spammers, thieves and stalkers to get at your information too.

Don't leave your food or drink unattended.
Many date rape drugs can be added to drinks and food without modifying taste or color.

Online dating is a great way for single lesbians to meet one another and build relationships. Always consider your safety while you're on your dating adventures - online or off.