TOP ONLINE Dating Tips

Is it safe? How to spot a catfish! And advice on finding your perfect match!

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In the modern world of dating, couples are connecting online and through apps now more than ever. And the COVID-19 pandemic only helped to increase those wanting to find love - or something else - online more so. Before the pandemic began, 30% of all adults said they have used online dating sites or apps before. Among folks who have never married that number goes up to 52%, and is also higher among adults currently living with a partner at 46%. In 2015, the Pew Research Center found that 59% of people thought online dating was a good way to meet people, whereas just 44% shared that opinion in 2005. Though its popularity is rising, you may still wonder if online dating is safe. Connecting virtually has risks, and it is key to keep in mind that dating apps don’t conduct criminal background checks on users, so it’s up to each user to determine if they are comfortable meeting up with someone. There have been countless horror stories of people being catfished, abducted, taken advantage of and even killed through seeking out others online or through apps. So, how safe is it, and what are dating apps doing to make it safer for not only women, but men too?

FHM spoke one-on-one with Jeffrey Tinsley, the developer behind the RealMe software that countless dating apps have been putting into action on their platforms that gives users actual verification and background checks, so that they can feel at ease when dating online. Oh, and he gives us his expert tips on what to actually put in your profile to find your ‘perfect’ match!

Why are more people now more than ever before trying to find love or some sort of connection via social media and dating apps?