Online relationships have increased immensely over the years, but there are many problems associated with dating online.

There are numerous social networks where cyber dating is popular such as eHarmony, Facebook, Match.com and many more.

“(Cyber dating) is a way to meet somebody, but you don’t know for sure who they are. You never know who could be hiding behind the keyboard,” said Ryan Risinger, a crime prevention officer.

Cassie Ringer, a senior marketing major, agreed.

“I would never cyber date. You never know who you could be talking to,” Ringer said.

Internet relationships are not always safe as there is potential for deception.

“I think that the biggest issue is when people lie about how old they are and their background and stuff,” said Amy Robertson, a sophomore math major.

Not only is age an issue but also other things people look for in a relationship.

“It becomes an issue when people over exaggerate with their personality,” Ringer said.

There is also positive feedback when it comes to online relationships and many success stories.

Samantha Mckinley, a senior elementary education major said, “I know three people who have gotten married that started a relationship online.”

Online relationships are similar to physical relationships in the sense that they take time.

“It takes a lot of patience to stay in an online relationship, but I think it could work,” said Kaitlyn Dagenais, a sophomore psychology major.

Students gave their own advice concerning cyber dating.

“It depends on the site that you go on, you should look at more credible sites and really look for standards in a person,” Mckinley said.

People also need to be careful when giving out information.

“Don’t give out too much information until you truly know the person,” Risinger said.

Robertson agreed, “I guess that nowadays (dating sites) can be kind of dangerous, just be careful of who you meet and how you meet them.”

Many people also had an opinion of how social networks and certain dating sites could be reformed.

“There should be a better way of verification,” said Brandon Norris, a freshman undecided major.

Robertson gave his advice on what he thinks would make websites safer.

“I would like to see some kind of background check,” Robertson said.

Dagenais agreed with Robertson saying, “It would be nice to make sure who you are meeting isn’t threatening or a criminal.”

Rachel Rodgers can be reached at 581-7942 or