MY sympathies go to Salwanis Maaz, whose 3-month-old baby has been allegedly abducted by her Pakistani husband and taken to Dubai (”Woman: Pakistani hubby stole my baby”– NST, Aug 7).

Could this episode have been avoided?

We must be careful who we befriend, particularly if we do so via the Internet, for you do not know who they are and they may not be what they claim to be.

Before taking the plunge with people you have just met, do some homework.

Basically, know who they are and where they are from. Get to know their relatives, too.

Best of all, if you’re looking for a partner, avoid looking for them in the Internet. It is the wrong place to look.

You would be better off seeking help and guidance from your parents.

BULBIR SINGH, Seremban

Source: NST – August 8, 2008