First date safety tips: meeting someone from a dating app

Updated 2026-10-25 · 5 minute read

First dates should be fun. A little preparation means you can relax and enjoy it, and leave whenever you want.

Before the date

• Verify they're real. Do a short video call, and check their name and photos with a quick search or reverse image search.
• Keep personal details private at first: your home address, workplace and surname can wait.
• Tell a friend who you're meeting, where and when. Shecurity's First date mode saves their name, profile and the place, and shares it with your circle only if something goes wrong.

During the date

• Meet in a public place and get there on your own, so you can leave on your own.
• Watch your drink and don't leave it unattended. Order it yourself.
• Set a check-in for an hour or two in. One tap tells your circle you're fine.
• Have an exit. A fake call is a polite way out: "Sorry, I have to take this."

After the date

• Get home your own way: your own ride, a taxi you booked, or public transport. Use Walk me home if you're walking.
• Let your friend know you're home.
• Report anything wrong to the dating app, and to the police if it's serious.

If you are in danger right now, call your local emergency number first: 911, 112, 999 or 000.