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Online Dating
By:
Published: August 25, 2006
A once-revolutionary approach to finding a soul mate, online dating has increasingly become the method of choice for many singles looking to meet a potential match. From finding a date to searching for a marriage partner, the Internet has become a safe haven for people searching for love in the privacy of their own homes.
Many people have found love through online dating and have created successful marriages. However, there are risks involved in this practice.
There are numerous reasons for choosing to utilize online dating services. Some singles are tired of failing to meet a match through conventional methods, while others are shy and find it easier to communicate via e-mail. Online dating takes away the daunting concept of finding a match by chance and it makes dating easier, adding the convenience of leisurely searching through profiles in the privacy of your own home. Whatever the reason for choosing to become an online dater, there are security precautions you must take in order to protect yourself.
What are the dangers of online dating?
- Anything too good to be true probably is
- Beware of sexual predators scouring online dating services and targeting potential victims based on their perceived vulnerability. An eventual meeting is the predator's goal.
- Beware of scams. There are con artists who sign up for online dating services with the goal of obtaining money. They will establish rapport, build trust and eventually ask for money. Do not be naïve.
- Beware of married individuals posing as singles. Unfortunately, a significant number of online dating participants are married. These people will be secretive and sporadic in their communication. Trust your gut and listen to your instincts.
- Anyone can lie about who they are. There are no guarantees the person you meet online will be honest. Ask questions and ensure consistency in the answers you receive before deciding to meet face-to-face.
Which online dating site is best for me?
If, after weighing the pros and cons, you decide to take the plunge and become an online dater, the next step is to determine which type of site is best for you. There are several different online services ranging from those aimed toward dating to those aimed at bringing people together based on specific interests. To determine what is best for you, keep your dating goals in mind.
- General services, such as Match.com and Yahoo! Personals, allow you to view everyone with a posted profile and are usually aimed at dating.
- Relationship services, such as eHarmony and Chemistry.com, are generally targeted for serious relationships, such as marriage. These sites match you with others based on extensive compatibility testing.
- Niche dating services, such as Animal Attraction (pet lovers) and Senior Match (older singles), bring people together based on common interests, age groups, etc.
Tips for Online Dating
Once you have chosen a site, create an honest and compelling personal profile. Just as you would create a resume to find a job, remember your profile is what others will view to catch a glimpse into your personality and interests. It is your selling tool to meet a potential match. Here are some things to keep in mind:
- Never give out personal information such as your last name, address or home phone number.
- Create a free e-mail account specifically for dating.
- Create an honest and interesting profile.
- Attach a recent photo.
- Be honest, not naïve.
- Do not let your guard down.
After exchanging e-mails and phone calls with an online match, you may decide to meet face-to-face. Follow these guidelines to ensure your safety:
- Meet in a public place.
- Have an itinerary prior to your date.
- Alert friends and family of your whereabouts.
- Provide your own transportation.
- Make a good first impression.
Online dating has become increasingly widespread as our reliance on the Internet has evolved, becoming incorporated in our daily routines. While the process can be rewarding, you must consider safety issues at all times. Do not let your guard down and proceed with caution. Trust your instincts and be true to yourself. And remember to have fun!
There are numerous reasons for choosing to utilize online dating services. Some singles are tired of failing to meet a match through conventional methods, while others are shy and find it easier to communicate via e-mail. Online dating takes away the daunting concept of finding a match by chance and it makes dating easier, adding the convenience of leisurely searching through profiles in the privacy of your own home. Whatever the reason for choosing to become an online dater, there are security precautions you must take in order to protect yourself.
What are the dangers of online dating?
- Anything too good to be true probably is
- Beware of sexual predators scouring online dating services and targeting potential victims based on their perceived vulnerability. An eventual meeting is the predator's goal.
- Beware of scams. There are con artists who sign up for online dating services with the goal of obtaining money. They will establish rapport, build trust and eventually ask for money. Do not be naïve.
- Beware of married individuals posing as singles. Unfortunately, a significant number of online dating participants are married. These people will be secretive and sporadic in their communication. Trust your gut and listen to your instincts.
- Anyone can lie about who they are. There are no guarantees the person you meet online will be honest. Ask questions and ensure consistency in the answers you receive before deciding to meet face-to-face.
Which online dating site is best for me?
If, after weighing the pros and cons, you decide to take the plunge and become an online dater, the next step is to determine which type of site is best for you. There are several different online services ranging from those aimed toward dating to those aimed at bringing people together based on specific interests. To determine what is best for you, keep your dating goals in mind.
- General services, such as Match.com and Yahoo! Personals, allow you to view everyone with a posted profile and are usually aimed at dating.
- Relationship services, such as eHarmony and Chemistry.com, are generally targeted for serious relationships, such as marriage. These sites match you with others based on extensive compatibility testing.
- Niche dating services, such as Animal Attraction (pet lovers) and Senior Match (older singles), bring people together based on common interests, age groups, etc.
Tips for Online Dating
Once you have chosen a site, create an honest and compelling personal profile. Just as you would create a resume to find a job, remember your profile is what others will view to catch a glimpse into your personality and interests. It is your selling tool to meet a potential match. Here are some things to keep in mind:
- Never give out personal information such as your last name, address or home phone number.
- Create a free e-mail account specifically for dating.
- Create an honest and interesting profile.
- Attach a recent photo.
- Be honest, not naïve.
- Do not let your guard down.
After exchanging e-mails and phone calls with an online match, you may decide to meet face-to-face. Follow these guidelines to ensure your safety:
- Meet in a public place.
- Have an itinerary prior to your date.
- Alert friends and family of your whereabouts.
- Provide your own transportation.
- Make a good first impression.
Online dating has become increasingly widespread as our reliance on the Internet has evolved, becoming incorporated in our daily routines. While the process can be rewarding, you must consider safety issues at all times. Do not let your guard down and proceed with caution. Trust your instincts and be true to yourself. And remember to have fun!
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