How do I meet someone from a dating app safely for the first time?
Meet in a busy public place, get there and back on your own, and tell someone you trust where you are and who you're meeting. Check the person's photos and number before the date.
Most first dates are fine, but some people use dating apps to rob, drug or blackmail others. A little preparation costs nothing and makes a bad situation easier to leave.
If the person insists on a private place, a specific house, or picking you up, that is a reason to say no.
Before and during the date
- Do a short video call before you meet.
- Choose a busy café, restaurant or mall.
- Use your own transport and keep your phone charged.
- Share your live location with a friend.
- Keep an eye on your drink and leave if you feel uneasy.
Frequently asked questions
- They want to come to my house for the first date. Is that okay?
- It's safer not to. Meet in public first, even if the person seems very nice online.
Want to know if there are warning signs about the person you're chatting to? Veritaza checks the photos, the messages, the number, the email address, the name and the ID document, for KSh 300.
Check a person