Editing Internet relationship (section)

=== Dangers of internet relationships ===
An oft-forgotten aspect of online interactions is the possible danger present. The option for an individual to conceal their identity may be harmless in many cases, but it can also lead to extremely dangerous situations. Hidden identities are often used in cases of [[Cyber-bullying|cyberbullying]] and [[cyberstalking]]. Concealing one's true identity is also a technique that can be used to manipulate the person's new online [[friend]] or [[Sexual partner|lover]] into convincing them that they are someone completely different. This is something most [[online predator]]s do in order to prey on victims. Despite the awareness of dangers, Mishna et al. found children and youth to still partake in online relationships with little care or concern for negative effects.<ref name="Abuse2" /> Brym and Lenton also claim that "although [their] true identities are usually concealed, they sometimes decide to meet and interact in real life".<ref name="canada2" />

Engaging in internet relationships is also risky because the information placed online about an individual does not have to be accurate. An individual can formulate an entirely different persona and pose as this person as long as they desire. This can be hurtful to individuals who are honest about their identities and believe that they are in a positive relationship or friendship with the individual. This concept has been most recently illustrated on the television show, ''[[Catfish: The TV Show]]''.
{| class="wikitable"
!Misrepresentation of...
!Cyberspace relationship
!Realspace relationship
|-
|Interests
|15%
|20%
|-
|Age
|23%
|5%
|-
|Background
|18%
|10%
|-
|Physical Characteristics
|28%
|13%
|-
|Other
|15%
|5%
|}
{{clear}}