So you're tired of being set up and have finally let your curiosity about internet dating get the best of you. Well, you're not alone. In fact, it's estimated that more than 20 million people a month visit dating websites. So let me be the first to welcome you to the new generation of dating.

If you're a beginner to the internet dating game there are a few things you need to know before you get started. It's possible the online profile claiming the guy is 6'5", lives in Hollywood and drives a Maserati has been fabricated. The key to making sure you aren't taken by a fake profile can be as simple as taking it slow when providing information. Don't tell the person every intimate detail about yourself and communicate through the dating website tools, instead of private emails.

Take the conversations slow and get to know the person. Chances are if they can't describe a few landmarks in their town, then it might be a foreign scam artist. On the other side of this coin, if you're truly interested in finding a real and honest relationship from an online source, make sure your profile is accurate and reflects what you think, believe and want in a person.

There are so many dating websites today you can narrow your search to your true areas of interest. Some websites work hard to ask as many questions as possible to connect you with people who have the same interests, but again, it's up to you to chose the right website for you, filter people and ask important questions. Making a list of the qualities you are seeking will help you stay focused.

The beauty of internet dating is you don't have to talk in-person to anyone you don't want to for whatever reason that may be: nothing in common, they use offensive language, incompatible beliefs, or they simply hate cats and you run a cat rescue operation. Regardless of the reason, be true to what you want and don't feel like you have to give out personal information or meet someone in person if you aren't comfortable or simply aren't ready.

Another important feature of many dating websites is the ability to let other users know what type of relationship you're seeking. Sometimes this is explained through information you actually type in when you're describing yourself or the website may have pre-determined choices you can select, or both. Are you looking for friendship, casual dating or a long-term relationship? Knowing what you want will help you connect with potential love-interests who will truly be a match made in internet dating heaven.

Finding love on dating websites is possible and more and more people seem to be connecting this way. So, fire up your computer, load that current picture and start meeting people. Even if you don't find love, you may find some interesting people out there who make paying that internet bill a little more fun.