There are certain things which people commonly lie about within their profile.

The most common include: Height, weight, age, and occupation.

Also be aware that people may embellish a little bit about themselves to make themselves sound better. For example, they may over exaggerate their travel experience, college education, etc...

Even some pictures can't be trusted. Some people use old photos of themselves because they looked better back then.

Most important, be aware that some people lie about their relationship status. Married people have been known to state they are single on online dating sites.

Be careful about sharing your email

Most online dating sites allow you to use an anonymous internal communication system. Make sure you take full advantage of that.

If you do start to feel comfortable with someone and would like to share an email address with them, don't use your regular email address. Set up a free email address that you use strictly for your online dating activities. You can easily obtain one through yahoo, hotmail, gmail, etc...

Don't ever give out your work email to someone from an online dating site. Make sure you remove your last name from outgoing messages under the options section. Most of these mail services automatically put it in from the sign up form.

Be careful about sharing your personal information

It's easy to get swept up and excited about the possibility of a new romance. However, the anonymous nature of online dating sites makes it just as (if not) more important than ever to protect your personal information.

Don't share your full name. Never give out the details of exactly where you work, or go to school. You can say something like “I work at a major downtown law firm.” If they ask, “Which one?” Just politely tell them you'd rather not say until you get to know them a little better.

Most people will understand and respect your decision to not share.

Don't ever give out your address. Be very careful about giving out your telephone number. This is especially true of your cell phone number.

Don't get too serious too fast

It's best to just keep things on the lighter side for a little while when you first meet someone from an online dating site.

Keeping things friendly and light will help you to get to know the other person a lot better than just diving into a relationship.

Using an online dating service will help you to find your ideal person for a relationship. By using it to its full potential you won't have to just “settle” for someone.

Unfortunately, there are some people of questionable character in this world.

You're just as likely to meet someone who is up to no good at the gym, bar/club, or even at work as you are at an online dating site.

The only difference with online dating sites is the level of anonymity that is provided for users. It's a dual edge sword.

It helps protect the innocent and allows those of dubious character to get away with a little more. These pitfalls and dangers weren't mentioned to scare you.

Online dating sites provide safe, fun, and exciting ways to meet people. Just keep these tips in mind and use common sense. The majority of people on online dating sites are legitimately searching for someone they can connect with, have fun with, and maybe even fall in love with. Maybe that special person they're waiting for is you!