My warning signs for who not to get close to (and certainly don't date!):
1) If they always want to hang out with you, talk, or see you when they are single but you barely hear from them when they are dating someone.
2) Someone who doesnt want their significant other being close friends or hanging out alone with someone of the opposite sex.
3) Someone who is always in a relationship and when they are single is constantly looking for the next one. If they spent more of their lives with a SO than without, no go!
4) Anyone who thinks you are the best thing since sliced bread right after you meet them.
5) Anyone who tries to slip in stories or anecdotes that make them intentionally look like a desirable person and leave out the bad stories. The easiest way not to come across as attractive is to try to "sell" yourself.
6) Dishonesty of character, which relates closely to #5
@freemo darn. Wish I had paid attention to that advice about 5 years ago.
@freemo You could say that again. Nearly destroyed the relationship I have with my mother, and I nearly lost my friend in the process because my ex had a brilliantly nasty way of manipulating people. I have to say it, I wouldn't be surprised if there wasn't a bit of magic thrown in there for good measure.