Online dating is a truly phenomenal change in the way that we meet new people in modern society. Gone are the days of blind dating somebody that you have never laid an eye on. Who hasnt had a bad experience with a blind date that some colleague or family member has sent you on? I get the shivers just thinking about some of these blind dates that I have been on. Online dating removes many of the negative unknowns while allowing you to meet some great people that you would never have met otherwise. It has become so popular over the last decade that today alone there is numerous reality TV shows dealing with the subject of online dating. After you have spent some time in front of your PC communicating with a person, you will want to meet him or her face to face. It is important to remember that even though you have spent quite a bit of time communicating and maybe even exchanging photos or videos with each other, you still dont know the complete history of this person.

I will try to give you some tips on safe online dating:

1. First rule in safe online dating is to meet the person somewhere in a public place. Don't let him to pick you up from home on the first date. If it's possible try to arrange some kind of double date because you will be and feel safer having somebody with you that you trust.

2. If you don't want to feel under any obligation pay half of the bill.

3. You found a person that you really like trough online dating and you finally meet him in a bar. Remember that alcohol can affect your judgment. So try not to have too many alcoholic drinks.

4. It's safer to use your own transportation. This way you won't have to depend on the person that you are dating.

5. Online dating is great and you can meet very interesting people. Always keep in mind though that what you see on your computer can be very different from the reality. For example if your online date said that he is a very religious man this doesn't mean that you can trust him. As with any relationship it takes time before we really get to know our other half in the relationship.

6. One of the most important safety rules is to let someone else know where you are. Believe me when I tell you that this is safer. If something bad happens, there is at least someone that knows where to look for you. It's best for you to tell a friend to phone you and check on you at a pre- arranged time.

7. If you really like the person that you met through online dating it's still good to stay alert. You never know what can happen.

In conclusion: Online dating is one of the greatest developments in our day and age. Just remember to be safe and responsible.

The next time your aunt tries to fix you up with somebody in her church group, tell her that you already have a boyfriend...in South Africa.