For all the convenience of online romances, there's also a downside to cyberspace dating. These include cautions, dangers, and compromises that are similar to those for other dating services )described in the previous chapter). And because of the Internet's widespread reach -- it's accessible to all kinds of people, including characters with...

CHAT ROOMS Online chat rooms are probably the easiest places to meet someone via computer. Chat rooms exist for almost every hobby, television show, and news headline. Some target specific age groups, geographical locations, nationalities, and just about any type of dating criteria people have. You can locate the chat room that interests you...

E-MAIL The simplest form of communicating with a love interest is through e-mail, much like writing a letter to someone or making a phone call. All you need, of course, is an e-mail address. Obviously, it's more difficult to e-mail strangers, but this is a perfect way to send a quick note to someone you just met. Think of how easy it would be...

Mom and Dad, beware! When your kids are at the computer doing their homework, be wary of them logging onto inappropriate sites. There are many stories about perverts who prowl the Web. They take on various poses, lure young people with misleading stories and promises, and can arrange in-person meetings. They may even travel to far-away cities or...

Many people ask whether they should meet a cyber-interest for a live date. The story usually goes that they have been chatting with someone for a while and now want to meet. Of course, the whole point of flirting online is to eventually find a match, meet him/her, and hopefully begin what could be a very promising relationship. However, what if....

Cyberdating is definitely a cheaper and more convenient alternative to meeting people. It saves you the cost of using a real-life dating service, it takes less time to find people to "chat" with, and it provides instant gratification. In addition, it's a great service to those who are too shy to strike up a conversation face-to-face with...