The hazards of online love

Online love is available - so be selective
Be aware that what you see is what you get. If a website advertises online sex - you know what type of people you'll meet there.

At the start of any relationship, use a pseudonym and leave public profiles blank. Never give out personal details early in the relationship. If at any point you feel wary, trust your gut instincts and hold back.

Online love is anonymous - so check it out
Once a relationship is underway, do a little research, as you would if you'd met someone in a bar. Ask questions, press for details and note any attempts to steer the conversation away from certain subjects.

If you get to a point where you're feeling a genuine rapport, then exchange photos. He should be prepared to give a current one with no excuses. If there's no physical attraction, it's best to find out sooner rather than later.

Next, arrange to talk over the telephone. Again, if the request is met by excuses, be wary as there could be someone lurking in the background, like a wife. Of course, he may be on the brink of separation - wanting to be with you, but not quite yet able. If this is the case, he should tell you. And vice versa, you should be up front about your romantic situation.