I wouldn't "know" about that per se lucy, but I have to agree overall, and have opined, that the net is no more or less dangerous than any other venue.

Whether you meet people through work or church or social club, the gym, a bar, or a lecture, the odds of meeting someone dangerous is probably about the same. Yes, there are more predators on the net... but there are more of all types on the net.

And far far more people are hurt by strangers driving cars on the same roads as you drive than are hurt from meeting people on the net. We've just come to accept that we have to share the roads with the inept and inattentive drivers among us.

So, yes, take your precautions, but also enjoy what the net brings in the way of opportunities to people who have so much in common with you.

Look what happened to me.

(In case you've not run across this. All from just being willing to have lunch.)