5 Rules: Online Meeting to Real Meeting

Are you, or someone you know, interested in meeting up with a someone you met online? If so, take a look at these 5 rules to help you prepare for a safer face-to-face experience.

1. KNOW WHO YOU'RE MEETING

This is probably the most important part of meeting someone face-to-face. Make sure you know what the person looks like; we suggest using some kind of video chat with the person before meeting, so there is no doubt they are who they claim to be. It is also highly recommended that you speak to the person consistently, and get to know them for over a year, before meeting with them.

2. DON'T GO ALONE

Whether you’re visiting them or they’re visiting you, always have someone you trust to accompany you when you first meet anyone from the internet; this can help settle your nerves and assure the person proceeds with good intentions. Of course, let the person you are meeting know that you are bringing someone with you.

3. MEET IN PUBLIC

For obvious safety reasons, if you're meeting up with a person for the first time, you should always join them in a well lit and populated location. It will be less likely for anyone to follow through with ill intentions in a public place, in fear of being caught. Going somewhere you can do activities can also lead to more of a fun visit.

4. BE PREPARED

Remember, despite the high hopes and expectations, things do not always go as planned. Having a plan ‘b’ is always beneficial, especially in the event of meeting someone for the first time. If you’re traveling to them, make sure you book round trip tickets and a hotel room, and take enough money to provide for yourself during the period of your visit. Always stay in contact with someone, and update them on when you are meeting and how it goes. Remember, if things go bad, at least they know where you are, and you can always call the police.

5. BE YOURSELF

While keeping yourself safe, there is no reason to not be who you really are; though you shouldn't let your guard down. In the same light, don't be overly paranoid that you do not enjoy yourself and have fun! You always want to leave a lasting impression so that you can plan on a second trip to meet each other; granted it all goes well.