Dating websites and online flirting in the recession

The popularity of online dating sites is booming, expanding by as much as 70% on some dating websites. Experts who study online relationships attribute the increase to today's tough economy. 'It's a frugal way to flirt,' says relationship watcher Josey Vogels in an interview on Canada's CBC Radio 1.

Known as Canada's Carrie Bradshaw – the lead character in the movie and television series Sex in the City – Ms. Vogels says that flirting on dating sites 'can be a heck of a lot of fun for no money.' And it's not just singles that are frequenting online dating websites, but also married people. 'Anyone and everyone' is flocking to these sites because all you need is an internet connection.

Speaking to the fact that online dating is becoming an increasingly popular pastime, professionals say that flirting a great way to engage in an inexpensive activity that is rewarding.

Dating sites, just like social networks, are communities. 'Much like any other of the online communities, you can swap emails, swap pictures, exchange videos, and music; everything that people are engaging in online as a way of meeting other people and getting to know them and establishing if they have similar interests,' Ms. Vogels says.

While online dating may be a supplement to face-to-face dating, experts say it is an excellent way 'to exercise your flirting skills.'