If you want to have an online relationship that is built on respect and honesty, then practicing courtesy is your best bet. You should start from the very moment that you create your profile online. Be upfront about what it is that you're on look-out for, but don't be exceedingly revealing. Hush up about personal details that are too personal. And don't make yourself out to be someone you're not. When asked for a picture, give an actual one to save yourself the trouble of explaining yourself during a real life date.

Once your profile is out there, it can be viewed by just about anyone and you'll start getting those messages. Your profile can rouse anybody's interest but what do you do if you're just not interested? Don't be afraid and do the right thing - respond. You can be honest without being hurtful. On the other hand, if you ARE into the person, then show it. Just don't go overboard by sending out tons of emails per day. This person might get scared off, you know. Keep it to a minimum, but be consistent.

If you and your potential partner agree to meet in person then set it up at a place where you wouldn't feel uncomfortable. Agree to meet somewhere public, and let a friend know about your date, just in case. If things work out well, keep the correspondence going. Build it up. But if the opposite happens, then this calls for another polite email. Don't fret; be as nice as you were before.