While it's usually safe to give out your e-mail address, or instant messenger address once you get to know someone online, there is some information you never want to give out.

Common sense suggests the obvious, such as not giving out your social security/social insurance numbers, credit card numbers, and so on.  However what about simply giving out your home address, phone number, or where you work?

While the majority of the members on even the world's best dating sites can be trusted, it's nearly impossible to recognise those few rare members who would take advantage of this trust.  It is advisable never to give out a phone number to someone you have not met, unless you are willing to risk having to change that phone number.

Your home address on the other hand, your place of business, or anything that could be used to physically track you down, is information that you do not want to give someone you have not met before.

Most people know that it's a good idea to meet in a public location for the first time, when they are meeting someone from the internet.  However for added safety, always tell someone where you are going, and make sure you have a charged cellphone with you.

- Steven Wells

Shaadidates.com.