You always have to be cautious when buying, trading, or communicating with anyone on the interent. It's a risk you take, but if you think about it, probably 80% of those people on these boards on those ones, are in the same boat you are...looking for a good hookup.

I suggest reasearching the person you are contacting. See how long they've been on the forums for, see if they are respected memebrs, and not some newb looking to rip you off. Ask other people, via-e-mail I suggest, and see if others have hooked up with them. Or, if you find someone if your area, maybe get together with them, hang out with them for awhile, get to know them a bit, then ask if you can get a hookup.

When I use to be in this situation, I always asked for something for collateral. That means, if they offer to get something for you, you are obviously nervous about giving a stranger money and so on, so I use to ask for their watch, a ring, cellphone, pager, or ID's in some cases. Something you know they'll have to come back for.

Hope this helps, peace