Are you looking for love on a dating app? Dating apps in Pakistan have become all the rage recently. If you care to look, you’ll find your entire university, college and mohalla on Tinder and Bumble! And while some might say that swiping right is a fool’s gamble at a shot at love, it’s not always in vain. Many Pakistanis are now experimenting and successfully finding love online.
In The Age Of Dating Apps, The Toughest Part Isn’t Finding Love, It’s Finally Getting To Meet The Person In Real life!
Whether it be tinder, bumble or muzmatch – they all have one thing in common, the anticipation of meeting your online beau in person. While for many that might seem daunting, for others it’s the day they have been impatiently waiting for!
However, not every story is a fairytale…some turn into true crime documentaries.
So, while you have butterflies in your stomach and are imagining the colour of their eyes, it’s important to think about your safety. Because if there’s anything we’ve learned, it’s that things aren’t always what they seem. Here’s how you can stay safe if you’re planning on meeting up with your “significant other” in person for the first time:
Cats Are Cute, But Being Catfished Is A Tragedy
Identity theft has become rampant. So before you make any big moves, check your potential date’s presence online. Leave no social media site or app unturned. Comb through their Facebook feed and tweets. Go through their LinkedIn if you have to to make sure they are who they’re saying they are. The last thing you want is to go to dinner and find out they’re a catfish or a seedy individual with three wives in different cities.
You’re Not A Vampire, It’s Better To Meet People In The Day In Public Places
While it sounds far more romantic to have a candlelit dinner by the beach, it’s better you meet in a busy cafe during the day. Because hey, if it goes well you can have the candlelit dinner next time, and if all goes South you can make a quick exit. Plus, you have the added advantage of being dressed casually since you’re meeting for coffee, so if they turn out to be dodgy you’ll be glad you didn’t waste time baking your face for two hours.
While It’s Fun To Let Go, It’s Important To Stay Vigilant
Never leave your drinks or purse and phone unattended and always be vigilant of your surroundings. If there’s anything inappropriate happening leave immediately. We often joke about red flags, but it’s important to see them when they manifest and take prompt action.
You’re Not Cinderella, Be In Control Of Your Ride
You’re not a princess who has to rely on a fairy godmother and an enchanted pumpkin to get her places. Use your own transportation or even ride-hailing apps to get to your date, because the last thing you want is a potential stalker knowing where you live.
Confide In a Friend, Or Better Yet, Get Them To Tag Along
Always let someone know where you are at all times. It’s even better if you can send them your location so they know you’re safe. Have a secret word (like “orange”) that you can text them to let them know you’re in a pickle so they can help. However, it’s better if you can have a friend tag along on your date so they can discreetly make sure you’re doing okay.
Lastly, it’s important to listen to your gut instincts. If you’re feeling like there’s something wrong but you can’t put your finger on it, that usually means that it’s your time to bid adieu. Have fun and stay safe!
