<<thats why you don't date online>>
Not so sure I agree with that. I have met several people offline that I got to know online. Of course I did not meet them to date, just as friends. You have to be very wary. If you talk to someone enough, it is very hard for them to keep a veil for months at a time. Doable of course, but unlikely.
Most people I have talked to have had a webcam and i have requested a pic with them holding something unusual, or several pics with their name and a custome message in a certain place. If they can't produce it, or won't, then it's likely they are playing you.
*note I have never dated anyone that I met online, but have met some cool people I consider good friends
*