How Do I Know If Someone Is Genuine Online? Online Dating Trust & Safety

Can You Trust Someone You Meet Online?

One of the most frequently asked online dating questions is: "How do I know if someone is genuine?" With millions of people using dating apps and social platforms, it's natural to wonder whether the person on the other side is authentic. While many daters are real and looking for connection, others may misrepresent themselves or worse yet, attempt scams.

The good news? There are reliable ways to separate the genuine from the fake.

Research from the PEW Research Center reported in 2023: a significant portion of Americans remain skeptical about online dating safety. About 49% of U.S. adults feel dating apps are not a safe way to meet people. Women are considerably more likely than men to perceive dating platforms as unsafe (48% vs. 30%).

Signs Someone Is Genuine Online

• Consistency in Communication – Real people show up consistently. Their stories, timelines, and details usually align.
• Balanced Conversation – Authentic people ask about you, not just talk about themselves.
• Willingness to Video Chat – Genuine daters are usually open to a quick FaceTime or Zoom call. Reluctance to meet on camera after weeks of chatting is a major warning sign.
• Respectful Pace – Someone authentic won't pressure you into rushing intimacy, sharing private photos, or making big commitments quickly.
• Shared Vulnerability – Trustworthy people share little personal quirks, stories, or imperfections that feel human—not rehearsed.

Red Flags to Watch Out For

• Too Perfect Profiles: Only professional photos, no tagged friends, or generic bios can signal catfishing.
• Evasive About Details: If someone dodges basic questions (job, location, background), it's worth questioning.
• Money Requests: Any request for financial help is a scam. STOP immediately.
• Fast Declarations of Love: Saying "I love you" within days is often emotional manipulation.
• Inconsistent Availability: Always "too busy" to meet in person or on video is a very suspicious indicator.

How to Stay Safe While Dating Online

• Verify Profiles: Use reverse image search if you suspect fake photos.
• Meet in Public First: Always choose a safe, neutral location with people around.
• Tell a Friend: Share your plans with someone you trust. Make sure they can track your location.
• Trust Your Gut: If something feels "off," it usually is.

Online dating is a powerful way to meet new people, but safety must come first. By protecting your privacy, verifying identities, spotting red flags, and setting strong boundaries, you can create space for real connection without unnecessary risk.

AILO™ has gone to great lengths to eliminate some areas of importance when it comes to keeping the online dating experience safer, more private and more authentic. When you feel safe, you'll be more open to authentic relationships—and that's when online dating really works.