Online Dating: Right Way and a Wrong Way

Internet dating can be a serious safety hazard for all persons. We have no idea who we are associating ourselves with. Thus, we leave ourselves open for predators, stalkers and any other scary faces we don't wish to encounter. Tammy does a good job of illustrating facts that each reader can relate to and understand.

Whichever network you belong to: Blackplanet.com, Migente.com, Myspace.com, Lovelysingle.com, take-me-now.com etc… just know that there are predators out there in society.

Indeed, there is a certain enjoyment in cross-examining a person via online before meeting. Perhaps, there may be more to it. Literally speaking, there is. People enjoy meeting others without having to approach them in person and think of something slick and smooth to say.

The rise of technology has made it easy for practically everyone now to live comfortably from home. You can date online, pay bills, purchase a car, purchase groceries, pick out a house, and buy clothing and anything you want. Could this be a potential downfall of our human race? We never thought we'd see a day when dating would be as simple as a mouse "click."

Pressing click can get you into trouble, though. Sites today give internet junkies the opportunity to look for a potential spouse from the comfort of their own home. Despite popular belief, there is nothing wrong with having a web page, posting a picture, brief profile and gone about your business. You can do anything you want, as long as you know the consequences that may come with it. In addition, there's nothing wrong with keeping friends online; Instant messaging or email tagging is ok too. But sometimes we humans have a habit of going too far.

If you must meet a person from offline, heed this advice:

* Always bring a friend with you and meet in a public environment. It's a start. At least you have an eyewitness. You never know who is watching and if the meeting might be a setup for a kidnap. Meeting in a public place is good because there are people around and probably law enforcement as well.

* Even if you travel with a friend, give the name, place of location and time to another friend incase something happens. Perhaps the web page and the persons full name as well. If they decline to give you their full name do not meet with them.

* Do not leave alone with that person. It may be the last time anyone sees you. A predator may try to convince you that he or she is "normal" and lead you off to a secluded area. There they can rob you, or run you into a group of people waiting to physically harm you. Be smarter than that, and don't give them the opportunity.

* Carry a friend or friends with you who aren't easily amused and will tell it like it is. These kinds of friends will save your life. You can either have them within your surroundings or have them watching your engagement from the background as a spy. Some predator's first move is to seek your trust and cooperation, before they move in for their proposed plan. Don't be easily moved; delighted or flattered by someone you just met offline. If a person you are meeting presents an uncomfortable atmosphere that you and a friend don't feel easy around, leave and never associate yourself with that
person again.

* Don't give away identification numbers, home addresses or ask them to take you home afterwards. Instead, catch a metro, bus or park your car in a crowded area where you don't stand out. It makes it difficult to locate distinction when you blend in to your surroundings. Don't forget to stay sober that day, you may need all of your coordination, marbles and reflexes incase you do have to get away. Meeting people online can be a great risk. If you plan to do so, at least you'll be at the top of your game.

Online dating can be serious…

If you are going to do it anyway,

Just do it the right way…