What is online dating?
An online dating service is an example of an Internet site that allows individuals, couples, and groups to meet online in order to interact and form a romantic relationship. This can be as simple as a solely Internet-based relationship or evolve into a face-to-face meeting and possibly a sexual relationship. Internet dating services provide unmoderated matchmaking through the use of personal profiles and sorting programs, allowing communication via online chat, telephones, and video conferencing.

What are some examples of online dating sites?
Well-known online dating communities include eHarmony, Match.com, and Lavalife. As online dating rid itself of some of the social stigma traditionally associated with it, more and more dating web sites have sprung up to target mainstream and niche interests. Many such sites are broad-based, with members from a variety of backgrounds and locations looking for different types of relationships. Other sites may be more specifically-tailored based on membership type, interests, location, or desired relationship.

What features do online dating sites have?
They generally allow people to provide a great deal of personal information, using the materials gathered to pair the user with other compatible users based on criteria such as age, gender, interests, and location. Most sites allow members to upload photos of themselves and browse the gallery of members in order to establish physical attraction. Sites may offer additional services, such as webcasts, real-time chat, and message boards.

How much does it cost?
They may also sometimes allow people to register for free, but generally offer most services at a fee.

What are the dangers associated with online dating?
Due to the online nature of the business, Internet predators can take advantage of their relative anonymity and the voluntary answers they give in their profile to deceive unwitting users into believing falsehoods about who they are and what their intentions may be. While Internet dating services take great pains to ensure the honesty and accuracy of their profiles, cunning online predators can still slip through the cracks and take advantage of the unsuspecting user.

How can I protect myself and those I know while using online dating sites?
If you decide to meet with someone in person, try and meet at a neutral location such as a popular coffee shop. Avoid letting them come pick you up at your residence. Better yet, try and have the first meeting as a double date. Always check with BadScreenNames.com to make certain you're not exchanging personal information with an online predator, and to view new and updated tactics for protecting yourself online.