Asking here because you guys tend to give more honest answers than most places online. Never share your real last name, address, or workplace before meeting someone in person.
Verified user badges make a huge difference for filtering out bots in chat environments. Public first meetings are non-negotiable. Coffee shop, bar, food court — somewhere visible.
A few things worth keeping in mind:
- Use a Google Voice number instead of your real number when you're still getting to know someone.
- Most scams follow predictable patterns — quick emotional escalation and requests for money or gift cards.
- Report suspicious behavior to the platform — most have dedicated teams for this now.
- Screen recording during video chats is a real concern. Keep personal identifying details off screen.
- Platforms with active moderation and real reporting tools are worth prioritizing over free-for-all sites.