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Safe dating: spotting red flags early

Trust is good, attention is better. How to recognise dubious contacts and protect yourself in online dating.

The vast majority of people in online dating are sincere. But wherever many people come together, some don't mean well. A sharp eye for typical warning signs protects you – without going through dating life suspicious of everyone.

Common red flags

  • Too much, too fast. Over-the-top declarations of love after a few messages („love bombing“) are a warning sign.
  • Pushing to switch platforms. Wanting to move to other channels immediately bypasses safety mechanisms.
  • Money topics. Any request for money, vouchers or „help in an emergency“ is a clear stop signal – no exceptions.
  • Avoiding video calls. Someone who permanently avoids a meeting or a short video call might not be who they claim to be.

How to protect yourself concretely

  • Share personal data (address, workplace, finances) only once real trust has grown.
  • Meet for the first time in a public place and let a trusted person know.
  • Listen to your gut. If something feels wrong, you don't have to justify it – you can step away any time.

Reporting helps everyone

You can report suspicious profiles or abuse directly on swaipr – in the app or via our reporting form. Child-safety reports are reviewed within 24 hours. More on our child-safety page.

Safe dating doesn't mean being suspicious – it means being attentive. Knowing the warning signs lets you enjoy the many sincere encounters all the more.