Online social media sites such as Facebook, Bebo and MySpace plus the countless number of online dating sites highlights the powerful appeal of using the internet to communicate with like minded individuals all over the world. However, the more popular a site becomes then the chance of it attracting the ‘wrong’ type of individual increases. The recent story of Facebook Fugitive George Appleton, who was found dead in a derlict building after being accused of the murder of mother-of-one Clare Wood, 36, is a very frightening reality check for those who like to spend their time chatting online.

For many, meeting someone online can soon lead to making contact in real life. This being the main selling point for online dating sites. This is the grey area of social media as many meetings will be genuine and risk free however there are always an element of risk and you should always be best prepared for any situation arising.

Points to help protect youself on first meetings :
* Make sure you meet in a crowded place NOT country parks or remote spots, no matter how picturesque they may be!
* Tell people where you are going, make sure you give proper dates, times and the meeting point.
* Carry a mobile phone and a personal alarm with you at all times.
* Try and meet during the daytime if possible, keep first meetings to a minimum.
* Arrange for someone to call or text you during the date / meeting.
* Trust your instincts!

Social media and online dating sites can be fun but remember to be pro-active in keeping yourself free from harms way.