Rule of Thumb: Chat for at least two weeks before giving out personal information like your phone number. You have to be patient and very careful because scammers and perverts abound on the internet. Use every legal tool available to analyse and evaluate, whether the person you are interested in is a loser or a winner.

Using online dating services can be a great way to find that special someone as long you are aware of the perils that exist. Remember to be on the lookout for anything that doesn't feel right to you, trust your gut to uncover the internet scams and crooks that abound. Be on guard for anything that does not ring true and is not from a reliable internet source. It is possible to have some fun with online dating and be safe in the process.

It can be troublesome to give out your personal information to move your relationship forward, but it is an important step. Stay away from anyone who asks you for your phone number, or other information, on the same day you first made contact with one another. Two weeks is a good timeframe to wait if you've been in constant contact and shared at least 10 emails between each other. A person can use your phone number to find out more about you, so listen to your instincts and don't give out your information if you feel pressured or wary of the situation. If you're not comfortable giving it out, then don't do it is the number one rule in this situation. The other person should understand and respect your decision. If they keep pressuring you, then kick them to the curb because it's not worth it. A level of comfort and safety is what a relationship is built upon.