Do you use dating apps to meet new people? This question, of course, is for all of you single people. Many singles use dating apps and online dating services to meet new people. It can be a great way to screen a potential partner before meeting him/her in-person. Unfortunately, though, there are also risks involved with using dating apps and websites.

According to a study of how dangerous it is to use online dating services, Michigan ranks thirty-two out of the fifty states in the United States. Backgroundchecks.org conducted the study “in order to help people make more informed decisions in using” dating apps and websites. “In determining our ranking, we used relevant factors including statewide violent crime rates, infection rates for the most common STDs, and the frequency of identity theft.”

Here’s the graph for you to view. Backgroundchecks.org says #1 is “the least dangerous” while #50 is “a veritable minefield”. Backgroundchecks.org also shared with Good Life Detroit six ways you can be safe when using a dating app or website. You can read the tips below following the graphic.

The Most Dangerous States for Online Dating | Photo courtesy Backgroundchecks.org

Avoiding Common Risks Associated with Online Dating by Backgroundchecks.org

These days, dating apps like Tinder and Grindr are pretty much the de facto means for single people to meet potential mates. Whether you are looking for a relationship or just want to go on a date, these apps will help you find what you’re looking for with minimal effort. Your perfect match is just a few swipes away. However, Tinder and its ilk are not without their risks.

Follow these tips to avoid exposing yourself to potential hazards. 

1. Scrutinize every profile.

Go through each and every match thoroughly, scanning for signs that the profile might be a fake. Reverse image search profile pics to make sure they are genuine and not lifted from elsewhere on the internet.

You might also want to search the person on Facebook. This may seem creepy, but remember, you are just protecting yourself. Trust your intuition! If the profile gives off a whiff of fakery, it might turn out to be the case.

2. Don’t reveal too much personal information.

Only disclose info that’s pertinent and necessary to keep the conversation flowing. Divulging candid details about your personal or professional life might leave you vulnerable to scams and exploitation. This goes for user profiles, as well as chats.

3. Take things off the app or service as soon as you can.

Online dating apps are best used as a means of meeting people in real life, not as vessels for long-term cyber correspondence. The sooner you meet the potential mate in person, the quicker you can determine whether he or she is earnest and worthy of pursuing a relationship.

online dating safety tips
Online dating apps are best used as a means of meeting people in real life, not as vessels for long-term cyber correspondence.

4. Don’t send any money to anyone. Ever!

This may seem like a no-brainer, but scores of people get pulled in by elaborate moneymaking scams on online dating services every year. The individual might pose as military personnel serving in a precarious environment or somebody with overwhelming healthcare debt.

No matter how sincere or desperate a plea for funds might seem, it’s likely a con and an immediate reason to cease communication with the person.

5. Avoid any attached files sent by potential suitors.

By merely downloading an e-mail attachment to your computer or phone, you run the risk of infecting your device with a virus.

6. Report all potential frauds.

By exposing scammers, you minimize the possibility of others becoming victims of online dating cons, benefiting the community at large.

While the vast majority of those using online dating services and apps are sincere people seeking personal connections, it never hurts to be cautious. By following these tips, you will minimize the risk to yourself and others.

Is there a safety tip you would add to the list?


Special thanks to Backgroundchecks.org for sharing their tips on how to stay safe when using a dating app or website.

For more information about the study, you can find the information here.

Visit Backgroundchecks.org here for more information about their services.

Written by

Jennifer Hamra

Freelance creative Jennifer Hamra created her blog Good Life Detroit in 2015 after relocating from Tennessee to Southeast Michigan.

Inspired by her love for personal blogging and photography, Jennifer likes to share her favorite Detroit things, from cool places to visit (the hidden gems are her favorite!) to the amazing people she has connected with over the years.

When she's not busy juggling family life and her creative projects, you can find her at an art gallery, community event, farmers market, or spending quiet time at home with a good book and cup of tea.

Jennifer lives in the metro Detroit area with her husband Travis and their six children.

Connect with Jennifer on social media @goodlifedetroit on all social media platforms or via email at [email protected].