There are countless dating apps, but not all of them have the same level of security as Marshmallo. Before creating an account, do some research to find a reputable dating app that prioritizes safety and privacy. Look for platforms that require users to verify their government-issued photo ID, selfie and profile pictures. Also look for dating apps that have a clear policy against harassment and abuse, prevent unwanted messaging and provide tools to report and block suspicious or malicious users.

It’s best to get to know someone before sharing any kind of personal information like your full name, date of birth, cellphone number or address. The person you are talking to could potentially use that information to steal your identity or stalk you. You should use the dating app’s messaging system until you feel comfortable sharing your contact information. Even then, consider using a secondary email address or phone number to protect your privacy. Be cautious about sharing photos that reveal identifying details such as your workplace, school, or home. You should also avoid reusing photos from social media sites. Google reverse image search could be used by a stranger to figure out who you are.

Be wary of sending explicit photos online because they can be used to blackmail or harass you. Photos that you share with somebody else may be unlawfully distributed online without your consent. If somebody pressures you to send explicit photos, you should report their behavior to the dating app and block the user. Likewise, if somebody sends you unsolicited explicit photos, you should report and block them.

Before a first date, schedule a video call to verify the person's identity and get a better sense of their personality. Doing a video call can identify if somebody is catfishing you. If you can’t or don’t want to do a video call because you don’t want to dress up or aren’t in a private place, consider doing a phone call instead. Although it is better to do a video call, you can still tell a lot about somebody from their voice. If somebody says they grew up near you but they have a foreign accent, you should be suspicious. You should be skeptical of anybody who does not want to do a video or voice call before meeting in-person.

Don't rush into meeting someone in person, even if you feel a strong connection. Take the time to get to know the person better through online conversations and phone calls. Ask them questions about their background, interests, and values. Pay attention to inconsistencies or evasiveness in their answers, as these could be signs of dishonesty or deception. If someone avoids answering your questions or tries to change the subject, it's a red flag that they may not be trustworthy.

Before meeting someone in person, do some online research to learn more about them. You can search their name, phone number, email address, or social media profiles to see if there are any red flags or warning signs. You can also use online background check services or public records databases to verify somebody’s identity, criminal history, or employment. While this may seem invasive, it's a reasonable precaution to take when meeting someone from the internet.

Be suspicious of anyone who asks you for money or financial assistance. Scammers often use dating platforms to trick people into sending them money, gifts, or personal information. Scammers can be very persuasive. They may ask for help covering medical bills, to pay for their mortgage or even just for gas money so they can meet you. Urgent requests probably indicate you are being scammed. No matter what you do, do not give money to or share financial information with somebody online that you have not met in person. Mispelled words, poor grammar, relatively few photos and a lack of social media presence are all signs the person you are talking to may not be who they say they are. Also be skeptical if somebody tries to move the conversation to a different platform like KIK or Snapchat. Oftentimes, dating apps have moderating technologies and policies in place that a scammer will try to avoid. If you are doubtful about a profile, get a second opinion. If a trusted friend or family member is also suspicious, you should stay away. Lastly, do not be ashamed or embarrassed if you have been scammed and report the profile to the authorities. Online dating scams are a rapidly growing source of fraud.