Avatars

An avatar is representation of a user's character or alter ego that represents them online. Avatars are commonly used on websites, online communities, web forums, and games. Avatars can be either three-dimensional or two-dimensional and are usually personalized; with some games and web forums allowing users to create their own unique avatars.

Dangers of Avatars
Being able to create an Avatar online, has, at times, been dangerous to others. These alter egos have fooled many people. A common example is when people hide behind avatars on dating sites. Generally, they pretend to be younger, post pictures of 'better looking people' they are pretending to be and have had a recent tragedy happen in their lives. These false relationships tend to go well until one party tries to meet the other in person. The aftermath commonly ends with police involvement.