7 Online Dating Red Flags To Look Out For + How To Spot Green Flags, Per Experts

There's a lot you can do to be more successful on dating apps: Bolster your profile, ask the right questions, and get clear on your intentions (to name a few). But to really improve your experience, experts suggest learning how to spot online dating red flags (which, truthfully, can be a bit tricky).

Want to find better matches and feel more empowered in the process? Keep reading for expert-guided advice on the most common online dating red flags, how to identify them early on, and what to do from there. 

Dating expert and founder of Heart Hackers Club Amy Chan defines a red flag as a warning sign or indicator that something is off or amiss. Chan adds that these warning signs indicate a person may have unresolved issues that could be harmful to your well-being or relationship. 

Just keep in mind, not every red flag has to be a deal breaker. Therapist LaTonya Washington, LICSW, adds that some red flags are just an indication that something needs further examination.

Again, not every red flag is a reason to run for the hills. It's important to understand your own needs and boundaries to determine how to handle potential warning signs in online dating.

Dating and relationship coach Sarika Jain notes that healthy sexuality and chemistry are important—and there are times at which someone may want to receive sexual remarks or comments—but she emphasizes that each relationship must first start off on a healthy foundation of respect and understanding.

We've all been there: A match is communicating with you regularly and enthusiastically for days, until, well, they're not. Washington notes that this can be a red flag because you deserve a connection that makes you feel secure and wanted. 

People test boundaries in many different ways, but one common example is if someone insists on meeting at a private location despite you voicing a preference to meet in a safe, public place. 

We always recommend planning time to meet in real life soon after you establish a connection online. That's why Washington says avoiding this can be a red flag. 

This one may seem more obvious: You should never give away your financial information on a dating app—and, no matter how small the request, someone asking for financial assistance is a huge red flag. 

You've likely heard this term, but what exactly is love bombing? Chan defines love bombing as "Someone pushing for intimacy, whether emotional, financial, or physical, at an accelerated pace without respect or consideration to your comfort levels is alarming." 

If someone has already made up their mind about you (claiming you're the one, for example), they may be projecting or creating a fantasy about you. 

While it should go without saying, consistent communication is a must in online dating. If someone maintains regular, respectful, and engaging conversations, it's an indicator that they have a genuine interest in getting to know you.

Of course, Jain notes that you want to make sure you're giving that consistency back. "A person shows that they're interested and reliable based on how they show up for you," she says. 

Be sure to note when someone on a dating app really listens to your preferences, respects your pace, doesn't press you for intimate details about your life, and doesn't pressure you to meet sooner than you feel comfortable. 

Emotional maturity is a major green flag. When dating online, keep an eye out for signs that they're capable of providing emotional support and encouragement.

Pay attention to someone who asks questions and listens. "That demonstrates emotional availability and the intent to form an emotional bond," says Chan.