Online Dating Safety

By Tony Cohn

Think it's time to meet that special someone that you have been chatting online with, in person? Sure, you will take the basic precautions like telling a friend where you will be and meeting in a public place, but is that really enough?

Here are six of the most common pitfalls associated with Internet dating.

1. Scams

Many people have lost thousands of dollars or valuable property to people that they have met on the internet. Be very wary of anyone that asks for money or "falls in love" too soon.

2. Stalking

Think that the anonymity afforded by the internet can protect you? It can't. If you hand over personal information such as telephone number, address or e-mail you are a prime candidate for being stalked. Don't ever give out your personal information to anyone online until you can verify their background and intentions.

3. Violence

Far too many people have been physically assaulted by people they have met online. Many dangerous people with criminal records are using the Internet to prey on innocent victims.

4. Mental and Emotional Abuse

Abuse is not confined to physical injury. A great majority of people have been harassed, humiliated, terrorized and threatened via online communications.

5. Identity Theft

Once again, never give out your personal information to anyone online. Many unscrupulous individuals will try to gain your trust in order to steal your identity.

6. Adultery

Up to 30% of people using Internet dating services is married. Though no method is fail-safe, many of the dangers listed above can be avoided by doing a background check on anyone you plan on meeting.

Tip: If you are an avid online dater, save money and purchase a membership from an online background check company. Memberships let you perform multiple background checks for up to a month for one low price.

Founded in 2006, People Search News is a Sacramento, California based non-commercial online source for people search and people finder related news and information.