Anyone who has ever heard of the Internet, whether they have used the Internet dating service or not, is well aware of some of the dangers that can arise from dating on the World Wide Web. The fact is, if internet dating can actually be a more rewarding experience than dating in the "real world", and you can be even more isolated from the negative experience on the internet that you will be in a confrontational situation. The Internet offers many screening experiences that are not possible when dating face-to-face, and using these opportunities to your advantage can lead to a highly successful online dating experience.
To be safe on an online dating site, start your experience with caution from every possible date. I recommend a step-by-step elevation procedure. Start your search by using a screen name that will address you when others want to contact you. Moving on to first names isn't a big step, but giving your last name is definitely something - don't do it until you have a reasonable amount of time to talk to the other person and realize what kind of person they are. Set up a separate email account to communicate with potential dates and never give out any personal information on the first communication. If you feel that another person is pressuring you for this information, be prepared to cut off communication (if they are already pressuring you on something like this, if you establish a relationship anyway) You have to face more pressure.
Pay close attention to what the other person is saying, and be sure to note any comments that are suspicious or contradictory as you speak. Don't rush into anything - you don't have to meet until you're both comfortable. As you chat, you will both need to establish a direct and clear rapport with each other, which is essential for a face-to-face meeting to establish trust (this is one of the unique aspects of internet dating - the foundation before you actually meet The state of trust is already there, so if it all seems to be working, you are many steps ahead of where you would have been if you had met physically in the beginning).
Some hard evidence is always good to strengthen some trust and relationship. To the sending that photo can be daunting, but if the goal is to, finally, meet then sooner or later you are going to meet, each other anyway.
Lastly, when it comes time to meet, make sure it is in a very visible area, along with many others around. Don't be too private on a first date - dinner in a restaurant, movie in the theater - something with plenty of people around because you really know the person.
Internet dating is growing in popularity and can be a great way to find and establish a great relationship. The mantra "there are many strange people" is certainly true, but the simple fact is that this is also true in "real" life. Having some extra caution in internet dating will ensure that you have safe experiences, although they do not always bear fruit like in real life.
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