Dating outside Canada

Using dating apps while travelling

If you are using a dating app or website while travelling outside Canada, know that they can be used to lure victims, typically foreigners, to rob or assault them.

While overseas friendships and relationships can work out well, follow these tips to stay safe.

Swipe safely

Set clear boundaries and always unmatch the moment you feel uncomfortable. It’s ok to change your mind. Never share exactly where you’re staying.

Is your date who they say they are?

Before meeting someone you met online, try to verify their identity. Consider a virtual meeting first, such as a video call. Do you know where they work? Do they show up in an online search? Does their photo show up in a reverse image search? Do they have their social media accounts linked to their profile? Check if the app you are using verifies users’ profiles.

The first meet-up

Meet in a busy public place during the daytime, close to your accommodation. Never take your eyes off your drink and carry enough money to pay your own way and to get you back to your accommodation. Always make sure someone knows where you are and let them know when you are back safe at your accommodation.

Protect yourself

Never give anyone your passport, money or bank account details.

Be especially wary of gifts—they could contain hidden drugs, which could get you arrested or jailed for drug trafficking.

Finally, check the Travel Advice and Advisories for your destination(s); there may be information on dating and safety and security in the country.

Trust your instincts: if something does not feel right, do not hesitate to walk away from a situation. Read our advice on personal scams when travelling.

For more information on various scams, including online romance scams, visit the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.

Cyber security

Cybercrime is increasing everywhere. Perpetrators can use your online footprint to find information about you. They may also use apps to target victims.

• Don’t hand out your social media details to strangers
• Consider making your accounts private
• Don’t post information or photos online that someone could use to identify where you’re currently staying
• Wait until you’ve left an area before posting holiday snaps

Cyber-dating scams are common. Canadians have lost large amounts of money on sham marriage partners. In some instances, relationship scammers have kidnapped and held people for ransom.

Read our full advice on cyber security while travelling.

Health and safety

Even when you’re on holiday, don’t relax your safety and security standards.

• Be wary of sharing your accommodation with someone you just met
• Practice safe sex; some serious and life-threatening sexually transmitted infections like HIV and AIDS are more prevalent in some destinations

Read more advice and information on travel health issues, including information on travel-related diseases.

Advice for 2SLGBTQI+ travellers

Read our travel advice for 2SLGBTQI+ travellers. Same-sex relationships and activities are illegal in some destinations. In others, they may be legal but attract severe discrimination.

Reducing the risk of sexual assault and harassment

Sexual assault and harassment can happen anywhere to anyone. It’s never the victim’s fault. Read our advice on sexual assault abroad before you travel.