Risk of Deception
The likelihood of misrepresentation is significant online, and forms of deception like lying about one’s gender are only possible on the internet. While many online daters are aware of risks such as fake profiles and dangerous individuals, they continue to use the apps. After all, they have a redeeming effect: around 20% of marriages start with online dating.
The same percentage of daters admit to being deceptive, while 90% believe other people are lying. If this were true, the number would be huge. In 2025, it is estimated that more than 412 million people worldwide use online dating sites or apps. This number is expected to reach 441 million by 2027, according to VPNAlert.
Online dating scams range from financial fraud to emotional manipulation. Catfishing—where someone pretends to be another person entirely—is still a major issue. Some users even go so far as to use deepfake technology to create convincing fake profiles.
If something about a user seems off, invite them to video chat. They might be hiding something if they refuse. Video calls are one of the best ways to verify identity early on, helping to protect against emotional and financial fraud.
Being Too Direct
One of the most common dating pitfalls for older men is dating like they did when they were young. Twenty or thirty years ago, you would meet someone at a party, exchange phone numbers, and maybe leave a message on their answering machine. Now, online dating involves texting, video calls, swiping, and numerous other factors. It’s too complicated, and older men may rely on outdated notions, coming across as too direct. Taking the time to understand modern dating tools and how people communicate will ease the complexity.
Another remnant from the old days is oversharing. It’s fine to mention your past briefly, but your date doesn’t need an hour-long breakdown of your divorce. Sharing too much, too soon makes women feel like they are therapists instead of romantic interests.
Some men get so excited about a new connection that they start thinking about moving in together as soon as the third date. Others adopt the opposite approach, taking too long to express interest. Finding the right pace is crucial, and it begins with effective communication. Yes, things were a lot simpler back in the day.
In today’s dating environment, emotional intelligence is more valuable than ever. Being self-aware, listening actively, and respecting boundaries are essential skills that make meaningful conversations possible. People want to feel seen and heard—not rushed or overwhelmed. If you lead with too much intensity or too many assumptions, it can create distance instead of connection.
Overemphasizing Physical Appearance
Dating apps that only allow a short bio tend to promote an overemphasis on looks, leading people to overlook users who might otherwise be a good match. To avoid overemphasizing appearance, expand your type to invite a broader variety of connections. Research that explored events and personality traits of a partner affecting physical attraction in the first year of a romantic relationship reveals complex correlations.
Participants completed a two-month rating of their attraction toward their partner, of which factor analysis revealed cognitive, behavioral, physical, and emotional dimensions. The emotional and behavioral dimensions played the leading role in attraction among both men and women, and the personality traits of one’s partner were a significant predictor of physical attraction, again for both.
What this tells us is simple: Physical attraction evolves. While initial spark might draw someone in, the emotional depth and compatibility determine long-term chemistry. Online dating platforms should not reduce attraction to swipe-left or swipe-right mechanics. Pay attention to profile descriptions, shared interests, and conversational flow—these elements often reveal more than a photo ever could.
Conclusion: Building Safer and More Meaningful Connections Online
Online dating isn’t going away—it’s evolving. With over 400 million people using dating platforms, the digital space has become the new frontier for relationships. However, this space also comes with its share of risks. By avoiding common mistakes like deception, emotional oversharing, and superficial judgments, daters can improve both safety and success.
At its core, successful online dating is about patience, discernment, and emotional maturity. Take time to build trust gradually. Respect your own boundaries and those of others. Instead of rushing into intimacy or making snap decisions based on photos, seek real compatibility. In an era dominated by algorithms and swipes, true connection still depends on human understanding.
By approaching online dating with both caution and curiosity, you give yourself the best chance of turning a digital introduction into something real—and lasting.
FAQ: Common Online Dating Mistakes
What are examples of bad behavior to avoid on dating apps?
Two common forms of bad behavior on (and off) dating apps are breadcrumbing and love bombing. Breadcrumbing is when someone gives another person the bare minimum attention to keep them hooked, but does not commit. Love bombing is when someone overwhelms you with compliments, affection, and grandiose promises very early on to gain your trust. It’s a manipulative tactic to gain control.
Why is ghosting so common?
A startling 85% of millennials report having been ghosted at least once. According to recent research, 59% of those doing the ghosting blame the victim for their disappearing act. 44% cite fears of confrontation or stalking, and 22% feel they don’t owe the other person an explanation. As of 2025, the most common reasons for ghosting include avoiding conflict (50%), followed by toxic behavior on the part of the victim (21%), and failure to invest mutual effort in the relationship (8%).
How can I stay safe while online dating?
Use caution when sharing personal information. Keep your conversations on the app until you feel comfortable. Schedule video calls before meeting in person, and always meet in public places. Trust your instincts—if something feels wrong, it probably is.
