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Precautions to Take When Meeting People Face to Face
As we get to know people online, there may be times when we want to meet them in person in the real world. It is extremely important that we take precautions before meeting face-to-face with someone from online. Criminals and fraudsters can easily fake their identities and pretend to be someone else while online in order to lure victims into meeting with them in person.
Review the interactive to learn the basic steps every person should use, whether you are meeting an online date, purchasing an item from a Craigslist seller or just getting together with a buddy from a gaming site.
You can also chat with a person on the phone before meeting them in person, but be careful to block your caller ID or use an anonymous phone service like Skype. Never use your home phone or give out your phone number as this information can be used to identify and locate you.
Warning Signs
Review the following tips to avoid running into trouble with people you meet face to face.
- Trust your instincts and pay attention when something doesn't feel right. Watch for "red flags" and questionable characteristics. Is the person too controlling? Do they talk badly about others? Do they avoid certain questions? Are they quick to get mad? Your gut instincts are a good measure of whether you should proceed with someone or end things right away.
- Take your time and maintain control. At any time you feel uncomfortable, you have the right to walk away and end communications without any need to explain. Do not allow someone to persuade or badger you into moving forward before you are comfortable with doing so. If a person is genuine, then they will understand your need to take things slow.
- End things with someone who brings up "sex talk" too soon or asks about money. These people are almost always insincere and could end up scamming or harming you.
- Avoid drinking alcohol before or during your meeting, as this can impair your ability to judge another person and the safety of the circumstances.
Additional Resources
Go to these additional resources for online dating and online buying and selling: