I think wether you meet a person face to face or the first time or on the net, NO ONE is going to reveal there whole life story to you? it takes time and trust with that person, people just need to be careful in how they meet anyone for the first time..Serial Killers like Ted Bundy and Kenneth Bianchi met women face to face some who trusted these killers just by talking to them innocently.
Meeting people for the first time no matter how you meet them takes time before any trust can happen it needs to build up..
That's my 2 cents....
Good post. People need to learn how to read non verbal communication, which is hard with the internet but not impossible if you keep up with the details shared. When there are red flags you have to learn to trust your instincts. I had a couple of bad experiences with online dating and have sworn it off for me. I do know people who have met online and are happy as a lark though.