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The Dating Detective Blog

Sharing my experiences of the various types of dating services out there. Holding to account the ones that are just outright questionable & praising those that do it well.

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Review

Gaper App Review: An Option for Age Gap Relationships

By Dating Detective on Thursday, May 19, 2022

If you’ve gotten confused with the number of dating apps on the market today, you are certainly not alone. With the online dating industry generating extensive revenue, any app with a new concept is poised to potentially rake in the cash. While major apps corner the general market, there is increasing room for niche apps …

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Industry News

Grindr User Data Routinely Sold, Posing Major Risks

By Dating Detective on Saturday, May 14, 2022
User data

By now, most people likely know that nothing on the internet can be truly anonymous. However, sometimes the lack of anonymity can come as a major shock. This was the case with a recent report that revealed that the gay dating app Grindr routinely sold user data including geographic locations of users. While aimed at …

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Industry News

Connecticut Dating Safety Bill Sent to State Senate

By Dating Detective on Friday, May 13, 2022

There are many stories about crimes that have resulted from online dating; however, a particular incident occurring in 2018 has moved the state of Connecticut to action. This crime involves the murder of Emily Todd, who was murdered in the New York City suburb of Bridgeport by a man she met on an online dating …

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Agenda

Survey Casts Doubt on Efficacy of UK’s Age Verification Proposal

By Dating Detective on Friday, May 6, 2022
age verification

There is an increasing push amongst the UK government to protect young people from adult content online. This is certainly a worthwhile endeavor. However, the government is increasingly finding that succeeding in this task will be much more difficult than perhaps initially presumed. This became increasingly clear with the results of a recent YouGov poll …

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Industry News

Tinder App Rolls Out New Selfie Verification Process

By Dating Detective on Thursday, April 28, 2022
selfie verification

If you’ve been on dating apps for a while, chances are that you’ve attempted to be scammed by someone trying to pose as a real person. Of course, most of us have also been catfished at one time or another. In fact, a recent study found that 20% of men and 28% of women who …

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Agenda

Dating App Behavior Analysis

By Dating Detective on Wednesday, April 20, 2022
dating

If you’ve ever lamented about the dating app culture, chances are that you may have experienced some things that have come to light amidst recent studies into the culture of online dating. A number of studies have revealed trends in dating app behavior that are described as antisocial, characterized by dishonesty and viewing relationships as …

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Industry News

Judge Rules No Responsibility for Fake Accounts on Match App

By Dating Detective on Thursday, April 14, 2022
match group inc

Anyone who has spent time on online dating apps has come across fake accounts. For many of us, they are now relatively easy to note. But what happens when a subscription-based dating app decides to entice unpaid customers to subscribe by using bots to their advantage? The answer lies in a 2019 case against Match …

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Review

Stir Dating App Review: A Win for Single Parents

By Dating Detective on Thursday, April 7, 2022
stir dating app

We live in a time where there are countless niche dating apps that help match people from virtually every conceivable demographic. From Gluten Free Singles to Farmers Only and Marry Me Already, there are so many hyper-focused dating apps that you are probably asking, “do we really need another?” I would have happily noted that …

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Industry News

Dating Group Becomes the Largest Online Dating Company

By Dating Detective on Wednesday, March 30, 2022
dating group

The competition over the global dating app market has recently heated up yet again as a new milestone has occurred. The Dating Group company has recently overtaken Match Group as the largest player in the global dating market. The company recently released an update that its user base had grown to over 140 million. What …

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Industry News

Bumble Lawsuit Accuses Company of Misleading Investors

By Dating Detective on Thursday, March 24, 2022
bumble lawsuit

Investing is a risky game by nature. Investors comb through data and information in order to determine the future success of companies. To make this process more transparent and help somewhat mitigate risks, companies face various requirements in terms of the information they must disclose. A current class action Bumble lawsuit from the firm Kessler …

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11 Smartest Embassy-Backed Tips for U.S. Citizen Security While Using Dating Apps Abroad Online dating has changed how people connect—especially for U.S. citizens who travel abroad. Whether you're backpacking through Europe, working remotely in Southeast Asia, or simply exploring a new city, dating apps offer an exciting way to meet people. However, navigating these digital platforms overseas introduces unique risks. From scams to unsafe in-person meetings, there are real security concerns that every traveler must understand. This guide goes beyond generic safety advice. It offers comprehensive, practical strategies to improve your awareness, help you stay safe, and share the right precautions as you explore the world of online dating during your travels. 1. Understand the Risks Before You Swipe When U.S. citizens use dating apps in foreign countries, they often assume the experience will mirror what they’re used to at home. But the reality is very different. Many scams target travelers specifically. Fraudsters may lure unsuspecting users with charming profiles and romantic gestures to manipulate them into giving up money or sensitive data. In extreme cases, victims have been robbed, blackmailed, or even assaulted. Moreover, local laws and cultural norms about dating, public behavior, and gender roles may differ drastically from those in the U.S. An innocent interaction could be perceived as offensive, or worse, illegal. Precaution starts with research and a healthy dose of skepticism. Assume that things can go wrong and plan accordingly. 2. Research Dating Norms and Laws in the Country You Visit Every country has a different cultural approach to dating and relationships. What is acceptable in the U.S. might be taboo—or even criminal—elsewhere. In some nations, online dating is banned or restricted. In other countries, same-sex relationships are criminalized. Misjudging these laws could result in deportation, arrest, or imprisonment. Contact your local embassy before you travel to ask about any relevant laws. Some countries also have informal cultural expectations, like meeting in groups or chaperoned settings. Understanding these norms will not only improve your safety but also your experience. 3. Secure Your Devices and Personal Information Your phone isn’t just a tool for dating apps—it’s your lifeline for navigation, communication, finances, and emergency contact. Before you travel, secure your device with updated antivirus software and a VPN. Turn off location-sharing in apps unless actively using it to share plans with someone you trust. Never upload sensitive personal information (e.g., full name, address, travel itinerary) to your online dating profile. Identity theft is a common issue in overseas scams. Also, avoid using unsecured public Wi-Fi to access dating apps. Cybercriminals often exploit these networks to steal personal data. 4. Choose Dating Apps with Safety Features Not all dating apps are designed with safety in mind. Some platforms are more vulnerable to scams, bots, and fake profiles. When traveling, choose apps that provide built-in protections such as: Location control In-app video calling SOS alerts or panic buttons Verified photo identification Popular apps like Bumble and Tinder allow you to disable location tracking until you're ready to match. They also offer match reporting tools and safety guides for users abroad. A safer app won’t guarantee a risk-free experience, but it significantly reduces the chances of encountering dangerous or malicious individuals. 5. Be Wary of Scams and “Too Good to Be True” Matches A well-written profile, good photos, and charming conversation can be misleading. If someone you just matched with begins to ask for money, makes you feel guilty for asking questions, or wants to share their financial problems, these are common red flags of a scam. Some scammers operate as part of organized crime rings. They may suggest a private meeting, then rob you or extort you using intimate photos or information. Stay alert and trust your instincts. If something feels off, it probably is. When in doubt, report and block. 6. Plan Every In-Person Meeting Carefully The most dangerous part of the online dating journey can be the in-person encounter. That’s why careful planning is essential. Share Your Plan With Someone You Trust Always share who you're meeting, where, and when. Send a screenshot of your match’s profile, and share your location via a tracking app like Life360 or Find My. Let a friend know when you expect to return and check in afterward. This simple precaution has helped travelers avoid becoming victims of abduction, robbery, or worse. Choose a Safe, Well-Known Public Place Always choose a public place for the first meeting—ideally one that’s well-lit, busy, and centrally located. Hotel lobbies, cafés, or chain restaurants are great choices. Never agree to meet in a private residence or remote area, especially on the first date. Even if the person seems trustworthy, always prioritize safety over politeness. 7. Use a Separate Phone Number or Burner App To protect your personal information, avoid giving out your primary number. Use a service like Google Voice, Hushed, or Burner to create a temporary number for dating purposes. This adds a layer of security if your experience goes wrong or you need to cut off contact quickly. 8. Be Prepared to Contact the Local U.S. Embassy If you face harassment, become a victim of a scam, or experience assault, reach out to the nearest U.S. embassy immediately. The embassy can help: Provide legal advice Replace lost or stolen passports Contact your family or employer Offer lists of local lawyers and translators Always save the embassy’s contact information in your phone before you travel. 9. Use the “Video Chat First” Rule A video call is one of the best ways to verify that your match is who they say they are. Most dating apps offer this feature, and you should use it before agreeing to an in-person meeting. Video calls can also help gauge chemistry and reduce surprises during the first date. Scammers and catfishers often avoid live calls, so insisting on one is a good filter. 10. Watch for Red Flags That Signal Danger Even on the safest apps, dangerous users slip through. Watch for these common signs: Avoids answering direct questions Pressures you for personal details Wants to meet too quickly Seems overly romantic or ideal Tries to isolate you Pay attention to inconsistencies in their stories. If something doesn’t add up, don’t dismiss it—caution is your best ally. 11. Make a Travel and Dating Safety Kit Preparation goes beyond mental awareness. Pack a basic safety kit with: A portable charger (dead phones are dangerous) A discreet personal alarm or whistle A printed emergency card with embassy contact details Pre-downloaded maps and local ride apps (like Uber or Bolt) Knowing your surroundings and having a clear plan will make your experience significantly safer. Real Experiences From Fellow Travelers "I matched with someone in Colombia who offered to pick me up. I declined and met in a busy coffee shop instead. He never showed up—later, I found reports of him targeting solo travelers." – Lisa, 27, New York "I always use Google Voice when I travel. It helped me block a guy who started sending weird messages after our date." – Aaron, 34, Arizona These stories highlight how often things can go wrong, even when everything seems fine at first. FAQs: Answers to Common Dating and Travel Safety Questions Q: Is it safe to use dating apps while traveling abroad? A: Yes, with proper precautions. Stick to well-reviewed apps, vet your matches, and prioritize public, safe meeting places. Q: What should I do if I feel unsafe during a date? A: Leave the public place immediately and call someone. If in real danger, don’t hesitate to call local emergency services or your embassy. Q: How do I protect my personal information? A: Avoid linking social accounts, use pseudonyms, and enable privacy settings on your app profiles. Final Thoughts: Stay Open, Stay Safe, Stay Smart Using online dating while abroad can enrich your travel experience in amazing ways. But as a U.S. citizen, it’s your responsibility to prioritize your safety. By learning the risks, choosing safer dating apps, being careful about in-person meetings, and staying aware, you’re not just protecting yourself—you’re building smarter habits for life. So go ahead—visit new cities, connect with locals, and make memories. Just always keep your security top of mind.

U.S. Citizen Security While Using Online Dating Apps Abroad

on Thursday, May 1, 2025
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