Safety And Online Dating: 3 Ways To Check Into The Background Of A Potential Partner

12 June 2015
 Categories: Business, Blog

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If you are single and ready to mingle, chances are you will find yourself frequenting an online dating website. Recent studies show that more than one-third of new marriages in the United States start online. While relying on technology to find a mate can be convenient, it can also be dangerous if you don't take the time to do your homework before meeting a potential partner face-to-face.

Here are three things you can do to check out your date's background to ensure that you stay safe when transitioning from online messaging to actual dating.

1. Take the time to check if your online friend has a criminal record.

One of the easiest ways to vet a potential partner is to use the Internet to try and determine if the person you have been messaging online has a criminal record. In order to complete this type of background check you will need to find out your date's full name and know the general area in which they live.

Once you have acquired this information, you can conduct a search using a public record website to find out if your online friend has a criminal record. It's also a good idea to check the National Sex Offender Registry to identify potential red flags before meeting an online partner in person. 

2. Verify the facts provided by your online friend by using social media.

Social media accounts can provide a wealth of information. Many people list personal information like their birth date and place of employment on their social media sites, and a quick browse through someone's friend list can help you identify family members and co-workers.

It's likely that you will discuss work and family situations with a potential partner as you interact online, so taking the time to verify the facts your date has provided through social media before meeting in person can help you spot any false information.

3. Only register with online dating services that screen their members.

It is in the best interest of online dating services to ensure their members are truthful and sincere, since quality members will attract additional paying customers. If you want to ensure your safety while dating online, registering for online dating services that screen their members can be beneficial.

By requiring a background check as a prerequisite for membership, online dating sites can eliminate unsavory characters from your online dating options.

Exercising caution when dating online is essential. Vet any potential partners you meet online by checking for a criminal record, checking the facts your date provides you against his or her social media account, and using only those online dating services that require a background check before granting membership. Taking these precautions will help make your online dating experience safer and more enjoyable in the future. For more information about back ground checks and safety, contact a professional like those at Fingerprinting Pros.