Don't be caught in the net by online liaisons

Internet dating is an increasingly popular way to meet people - but it can lead to dangerous liaisons.

[ClickPress, Tue Feb 28 2006] According to personal safety charity the Suzy Lamplugh Trust it is possible to stay safe dating people who have been contacted over the web by following some basic advice.

A spokeswoman said: "Remember that people you meet over the internet might not be who they say they are.

"If you are replying to a lonely hearts advert, never give personal details such as your address or surname.

"It is not unknown for address details to be obtained by having just a telephone number, so be guarded about giving yours out.

"Always arrange to meet in a busy public place, preferably in the daytime, until you are sure of the other person's identity.

"Take a friend along, at least at the beginning, to meet your date - work out a signal with your friend to indicate whether you would prefer them to stay with you.

"Tell someone where you are going, who with - including their name and phone number - and initially don't go home with your date and don't invite them back to your home or accept a lift.

"Carry a personal alarm and know how to use it to shock and disorientate an attacker, and pay attention to your instincts.

"If you feel uneasy about someone, there may be a reason - don't tell yourself that you're being silly. Be careful not to give them personal details about yourself and don't arrange a second date."

Shaun Hilton, of Brook Street, Soham, has been jailed for life for the murder of his girlfriend. The 39-year-old, a former nursing assistant at Papworth Hospital, will serve a minimum of 15 years. Kim, 34, joined a dating agency in the wake of a failed marriage and another broken four-and-a-half year relationship. She was looking for love and a fresh start but instead walked into the hands of her murderer.

More Europeans are now using online dating services than in America.

According to a recent survey, the European online dating market grew 43 per cent last year while the number of US subscribers fell for the first time.

Overall, 5 per cent of Americans looked for love online last year, 1 per cent down on 2004. The reason for this has been blamed on the cost of signing up to schemes.

Latest update on online dating services is provided with the help of http://www.datingservices-online.net

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