4 Ways to Meet Someone Online Safely

1. Never Give Out Personal Information Publicly

This includes phone numbers, addresses, email addresses and full names, but it also entails information such as Social Security numbers and credit card numbers. That information gives whoever you are talking to the ability to intrude on your life in ways which you may not have considered. You don't need to lie (and you shouldn't if you're hoping to start a relationship), but take steps to filter your personal details. Use an alias, speak about things in a general way (the city you live in rather than the neighborhood or the type of job you do rather than your specific workplace) and watch carefully for signs that whomever you are talking to may be too eager to get in touch away from the Internet.

2. Use Online Dating Sites

Most professional dating services, such as Match.com and Perfect Match have specific safeguards built into their services. You can use them to meet people safely, to talk without fear of being stalked and to report anyone who is engaging in intrusive or inappropriate behavior. Get specific details about existing safety protocols before you join a dating site and don't be afraid to use them if someone makes you feel uncomfortable.

3. Always Meet in a Public Place

When you get together with an online person for the first time, don't go over to his house and don't have him come to yours. Meet somewhere public and popular, like a restaurant, a mall, or a movie theater, and confine your activities to that location. Beware if he insists that you go elsewhere and don't be afraid to leave if you feel that things are not right.

4. Let Someone Else Know Where You'll Be

When you meet somebody from online for the first time, it may be helpful to tell a friend or a family member where you'll be--the location, the time you're meeting the online person and how long you expect to be, as well as what you know about your new online acquaintance. If you have a cell phone, arrange for someone to call you at a pre-arranged time, perhaps two hours into the meeting, just to make sure you are safe.