With the increase use of computers and the Internet, we get to make a lot more new friends online. You may be thinking of meeting up in real life after knowing each other for awhile, but might have heard about the dangers of meetups.
TV shows have also often warned the public, especially teenagers and women, to be extra careful of meeting online friends.
So, what are the precautions we have to take when meeting up for the first time?
Here are some points to remember:
Meet up during daytime if possible.
Meeting up during daytime will always be safer than night time. Choose a comfortable time for the meetup and inform your parents or close friends about your meetup and location.
Meet up at crowded places.
You can choose to meet up your online friends at crowded places such as shopping malls or places you are familiar with. For ladies, never ever meet up a guy at his place or never let him bring you to quiet and unfamiliar places. You may already have a certain level of trust in the person you're meeting but it's always good to protect yourself in case he's good with his disguise.
Do not get into the men’s car (for ladies).
This is to prevent him from bringing you to deserted places without your consent. He may insist on giving you a lift, but you should learn to reject him politely.
Do not wear too clothes that are too revealing (for ladies).
The reason is obvious…
Do not leave your drinks unattended.
This is to prevent your drinks being drugged. It’s always better to be safe than to be sorry.
Do not get drunk if you go drinking.
Never trust someone who you have just known. You will never know the other party’s intentions.
Do not allow men to send you home.
It might not be a good idea to let him know your actual address in the early stages of meetups.
