Online dating is becoming more popular than ever. It's a
billion-dollar industry, and experts say users should take precautions
before revealing detailed information on the Internet.
University
of Alabama at Birmingham Professor John Sloan says more cases of crime
and fraud are resulting from the cyber meet-ups. Sloan says some of
those encounters can leave users out of love and out of cash. That's why
he says users should always withhold personal and financial
information, such as bank account and social security numbers.
"If
they're interested in your occupation, your finances, where you live,
those are the indicators that might show that you have money," Sloan
says.
He also reminds users that, even though they may intend for "one" person to read what they type, thousands may end up seeing it.
"Whatever you post to the Internet is there forever," Sloan says.
If someone feels they are being victimized or threatened online, they are encouraged to contact police.
