Internet dating has grown so popular that there are almost too many online dating sites to count. No matter what company works best for you, there are a few safety precautions to take, and a few social networking tips to consider when creating that first online dating account.

Internet dating can be a fun and adventurous way to meet people in your area if you consider the following:

Don’t Use Your Whole Identity Online

When building your online profile, it’s important to keep important parts of your identity private. Your real last name, your home address and phone number should be considered “close hold” information. The majority of the people on your chosen online dating service don’t need to know your real name or your home address. This is information you can share on an individual basis later, after you’ve developed trust and gotten to know people one-on-one. Revealing too much information leaves you vulnerable to stalking or identity theft in any situation, including Internet dating. Even email address should be anonymous - just open a new/free account for internet dating on Yahoo email.

Use a “Neutral” Photograph

When choosing a photo to place on an Internet dating site, try to choose a close-up shot of your face uncluttered by distracting background details. This is good for two reasons; you want your “first impression photo” to draw attention to your best qualities, and you also want a picture that does not reveal too much about your location and address. This is a precaution you should take in the interest of basic privacy. Don’t be afraid to show your face on an Internet dating site - within reason. Just as in any social situation, it’s important to have fun without throwing caution to the wind.

Making Contact

When trading messages with a new friend through an Internet dating site, the other person probably has as many questions about you as you have about them. Share what you feel comfortable sharing, but don’t be shy about asking the same kinds of questions asked of you. Sincere Internet dating service subscribers will be happy to share about themselves and the key to a good experience is having fun. When getting to know people without the benefit of face-to-face conversation, it is easy to miss subtle nuances of communication. Always assume that your messages could be easily misunderstood when it comes to sarcasm or humor. It’s always a good idea to point out when you are only being funny or making observations meant to be taken with a grain of salt. Until you get to know your new Internet dating friends well, a little explanation could save you from a misunderstanding or two.

Meeting in Person

Eventually you will meet someone through your Internet dating experience that you would like to see in person. When making a first date or just a casual get-to-know you meeting, always choose a public place for your first few outings. Carry your cell phone with you, and you might also want to tell a friend your plans of meeting someone. These basic precautions are just as much for the other person’s comfort level as they are for your safety. The other person will most likely be uncomfortable with the idea of meeting you for the first time in a private home or in a secluded place. By asking to meet at a coffee shop or other public place, you earn points for being considerate.

One tip on the first meeting is to schedule the date, but say you have plans for later that evening with family or friends. And, that you only have a "couple of hours". This way nobody gets hurt if it turns out to be a bad match, or something makes you feel uncomfortable. After the brief encounter, excuse yourself for your previous engagement. But, if things work out simply explain that it was only a precaution in case your date was a "dud"! Of course, you're admitting to a lie. But it scores big points with your date.

Typical place to meet is a coffee shop, but you should try to be creative. Perhaps a coffee shop with a bookstore or bakery to add color. Meeting at a bar can be awkward on a first date for some. So, try to meet somewhere that has a bar or restaurant nearby - in case things are going well and you want to move the party along! Although a simple Starbucks is safe, it can be boring. Make effort to be creative.

Internet dating is a fun way to meet new people. With an ounce of caution and an open mind you can get to know a wide variety of people of different backgrounds, occupations and cultures.