Make that a Megabyte as online dating is fast becoming an increasingly popular way to meet people. Many couples who meet online even end up finding true love and getting married.
Gone are the days of making fun of people who use online dating sites to find a companion – the stereotypical image of an overweight nerd sitting at a computer stuffing his face with chips is a thing of the past - people of all ages, shapes, sizes and professions are now turning to cyberspace to find the perfect mate.
And while a good old-fashioned meeting with another person is probably still the first choice for many looking for love, online dating gives those of us who are perhaps a little shy the chance to interact with another person without the initial pressure.
Some online dating statistics
A 2013 American survey found that 49% of people find physical characteristics most important. 64% found common interests the most important.
The survey also concluded that, at age 26 there are more men seeking women online but at age 48 there are twice as many women seeking men.
Last year, some statistics reported that 1 in 5 couples met through online dating. Today the figure is closer to 1 in 3.
According to Statistic Brain, research provider to publications such as the New York Times and Forbes, a whopping 40 million of the 54 million single people in the US have tried online dating.
Men lie most about their age, height and income, while women lie most about weight, physical build and age.
Some guidelines for online dating
While online dating is generally a safe platform, there are, unfortunately, many scammers out there.
Online daters should always keep a clear head, and try not to have realistic expectations.
Here are a few guidelines:
- Do not give your personal details to anybody whilst online dating.
- Never send money to anybody.
- Do not give people your private e-mail address.
- If you suspect somebody of inappropriate behaviour, contact the dating site team immediately.
- If you're planning on meeting somebody (in person) always tell a close friend or relative where you are going and what time you are supposed to be meeting.
- The cardinal rule of online (and offline) dating is really quite simple - listen to your inner voice. If something seems wrong or you suddenly feel uncomfortable or threatened, remove yourself from the situation. Trust your gut.
- Finding
- Looking for reputable online dating sites you can trust? Visit www.zoosk.com, www.edenmatchmaker.com, www.datingbuzz.co.za or www.datingsouthafrica.co.za.
(Sources: www.saonlinedating.co.za. www.edenmatchmaker.com, www.statisticbrain.com.)
ARTICLE: TANYA WATSON, GEORGE HERALD ONLINE SUB EDITOR
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