I'm loathe to admit this, but it's a reality. By placing your profile on any online dating website, you're opening yourself up to a potentially long list of weirdo's, freaks and crazies. If you're into the weirdo's, freaks and crazies, then good for you – as they say, one person's poison is another's pleasure. If you're not, here's how to avoid the drama of the online dating freak.
Before you even read their response sent to you, take a look at the picture. Where has the photograph been taken? What are they doing in the photograph? Who's in the photograph with them? If he's topless, leaning against his sports car he may seem loaded and exciting, but that car may be on loan and anyone can paint on a six-pack these days. Of if she's wearing black pleather and holding a whip, you may think she's a sexy dominatrix – chances are you'll find yourself in your own version of Misery when she morphs into a Kathy Bates. The ideal photograph you're looking for is full-body and fully-clothed, with a warm, inviting smile. If they're striking a ridiculous pose, trying to look tough or intriguing, they're trying too hard. Delete the freak.
Secondly, check their online dating screen name – it tells you who they are and what they're looking for. HotInATub_24 may make for great adult conversation, but if you're looking for something a bit more serious, he/she may not be looking to chat about anything other than the wonders of Jacuzzi massaging jets and their various speeds. LoveMyPorsche may be too busy talking about himself and his bank account to pay attention to your likes and dislikes while NoMoreBaggage may come with come with two kids and an ex with a restraining order. Delete the freak.
Only after applying the above two filters to prospective online dating matches should you then read their responses. Always, always trust your instincts. If something you've read bothers you (even if it's just a little), then move on. Online dating is about finding the person you think suits you best, why waste your time on anyone who doesn't meet your standards or at the very least not make you feel uncomfortable? The obvious warning signs are immediate requests to meet and sometimes even random marriage proposals. This may sound ridiculous, but people will do whatever it takes to get a green card or citizenship.
Also, if, in their response, they try to be too charming and smoothly rattle off arbitrary facts about themselves, they're trying too hard to impress you. Read through their profile and discreetly ask them questions about themselves – if their answers aren't consistent with their profile, that's a warning sign that they can't be trusted. Delete the freak.
So if you spot a freak, simply hit delete!
