The online world as well as the real world is full of scam artists, stalkers, cheaters and other undesirables. However both worlds are also full of kind, honest, reliable and hard working individuals. One of the biggest challenges for those using online dating services is learning how to tell the difference. Fortunately there are ways that you can tell if you are being scammed, and things you can do to protect yourself from becoming a victim.

Trust your instincts. Women especially seem to be in tune with their gut feelings and these can be a great defence mechanism. Pay close attention to any feelings of unease or uncertainty about someone, as it could be in your best interests.

Be wary of inconsistent stories and vague responses.

If a person can't keep their facts straight then it's probable that they may be lying to you. Learn how to pay attention to the words and spot any inconsistencies. They could be things like marital status, line of work, age, or even appearance. If simple information like this doesn't seem consistent then be very wary

Talk on the phone before arranging to meet up.

This is vital for your own safety. You can get a genuine feel for someone by simply talking to them. You can't get this same sense from just reading words on a computer screen. If your date is hesitant to give out their home phone number, or finds it difficult to organize a time for you to both to talk on the phone, then be wary as they could be in a relationship or even married.

No matter how nice your online date seems, or how genuine they appear to be, if they ask for money or for your banking or credit card information, then alarm bells should be ringing. You are being set up to be scammed. You don't have to be stupid to fall for this type of trick as these people are very clever and know how to trap unsuspecting individuals such as yourself.

Scam artists often give stories of hardship and misfortune, with a request for financial assistance, preying on kind hearted individuals. If this happens to you then stop all communication immediately and report the person to stop them from targeting others.

If you meet up with your date and you both get on well together, then you may start to see each other regularly. If this happens and your date never talks about their family or friends, see this as a danger signal. They could be trying to hide something. have some family or groups of friends and would want to introduce you to them if you are going out together.

Be wary of people asking for personal information on dating sites. The more personal information you give out during your online communications the greater the risk of being victimised. Never give out your home address, name of employer, last name, phone number, email address, or any other information unless you feel comfortable at doing so. If you are pressurised into anything you don't want, just stop any more communications and move on.

There are plenty of good people just waiting to meet you online, and you can have great fun dating them. But by just taking a few sensible precautions you will save yourself any heartache or becoming a victim of scams.