We used to caution our loved ones about the dangers of meeting people from the internet, but now we readily summon these strangers to deliver meals or take us home after a night on the town. More than ever, we’re using the internet to bring unknown people into our lives. According to industry research, about 40 percent of relationships start online and nearly a quarter of the U.S. uses rideshare services at least once a month. There’s also been an increase in the number of people using online apps and services to meet others for non-romantic connections, such as forming gaming groups, making friends, or just getting coffee.
Most of the time, meeting these people goes well, but that doesn’t mean that it’s without risk. It’s in your best interest to make sure you’re doing what you can to protect yourself when meeting strangers for the first time.
DO YOUR RESEARCH
First, perform a Google search of the person
