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Step 1
WRITING YOUR PROFILE. When setting up your profile, make sure to avoid sharing any information that may reveal your identity. Be as vague as possible. For example, it's ok to state that you like to work out, but you don't want to state that you work out at "Joe's Gym", or that you walk your dog at Cloverleaf Park every Saturday.
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Step 2
ADDING A PHOTO. If you choose to add a photo to your profile, be careful of any information you may be revealing of yourself. It's amazing the information you can gather about an individual simply by observing a photo. I wouldn't suggest a photo standing next to your car (especially revealing the plate), standing in front of your house, or at any social event that may make it easy to connect you to a particular club/event.
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Step 3
COMMUNICATING. Once you start receiving responses to your ad, be very careful how you communicate with your potential date. Use the dating site to send emails and messages. Don't use your private email or work email at this point. If you decide to communicate by phone, ask that YOU be the caller and block your number when making the call. I don't recommend revealing your phone number until AFTER you actually meet and feel comfortable with the individual. If you do decide to give out your phone number, a cell phone number isn't as easy to trace as your home phone is. There are many sites out there that can reveal your home address simply by typing in your home phone number.
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Step 4
RESEARCH. Try to find out as much information from your potential date as possible. By learning his last name you can utilize many government web sites to check his background. For example, you can go to your local clerk of courts web site and do a criminal record search. Most of the time these sites are free and can reveal as a speeding ticket to a domestic violence charge, or more.
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Step 5
MEETING. This is the most important step. First off, let people know where you are planning on meeting. Tell your friends or family members. Also, make sure it is in a public place.
