Meeting people from the internet can sometimes lead to friendships, but for many, it turns into uncomfortable or even frightening experiences. Several people shared how online connections quickly turned sour once they met in real life. One woman discovered her supposed friend had collected private photos of her without permission, while another realized a man she planned to meet had lied about even living in her state. Some encounters involved manipulation or pressure, like a man who flew overseas expecting a woman to spend time alone with him despite her refusal, or someone who invited multiple dating matches to a party just to boost attendance. Others found themselves feeling ignored, misled, or unsafe after long trips to meet people who acted completely different in person.

Not all experiences were dangerous, but many were deeply awkward or disappointing. Some travelers spent time and money visiting online friends only to be abandoned, treated poorly, or put in uncomfortable situations. One person discovered a date was secretly in a relationship, while another was shocked by a new friend’s unhygienic habits that made the visit unbearable. Across these stories, a common lesson emerges: online personas often differ from reality, and excitement or trust built through screens doesn’t always translate safely offline. These encounters remind us that caution, clear boundaries, and careful planning are essential when meeting someone from the internet, because curiosity can sometimes lead straight into situations we wish we had avoided.