Before you decide to proceed with online dating make sure that you research and investigate everything. Do a background on yourself and check what information is available on-line about yourself. Knowing what is already out there will help draw possible red flags and help you take steps in securing your information from the internet.

A simple Google (or internet) name search will open several windows and provide you with information about the person you're interested in. Searching someone online will disclose possible criminal charges and/or if the person even exists. Google allows you to perform an image search as well which could confirm whether or not an image of a person is being used in an online relationship scam or other internet hoaxes.