Find a reputable online dating service. "Single and looking" chat rooms can be unpleasant places.

Choose an non identifiable screen name (and keep it clean - otherwise you are asking for the wrong sort of attention).

Never give out any personal information at the beginning and when you are ready to tell someone your real name and/or where you live - stick to first names only and be vague about your address.

When you are ready to chat online, outside of dating site - use seperate e-mail and IM accounts for online dating.

You can feel as if you really know your new cyberdate but don't be in a rush to meet them offline and don't let them rush you.

Keep an open mind, people online can be somewhat selective with the truth about age, weight etc.

Do not rely on a photograph. It could be an old picture or a picture of someone else entirely.

When you are ready to take things a step further, start with a telephone call and either block your number or use a public phone.

When you do meet, do it in daylight, with a friend, in a very public place and tell someone where you are going. Never leave or go home with them

Make sure you know how to save copies of your online dating conversations.

Remember your Netiquette and be nice! Just because someone is not your ideal match, it doesn't give you the right to be horrible to them.