Dr Jim Phillips of Monash University's School of Psychology says people playing the dating game could have fun with the latest technology to find their perfect match - or not.

"It could be a liability. Once people are face to face it could end up like trying to match the V8 or medallion to socks in trousers," he says.

"As a tool the internet and mobile phone technology can find people quickly. It can improve things for the shy or lonely."

But Dr Phillips' academic study, The Psychology of Internet Use and Misuse, revealed that a third of people lied about themselves and posted outdated photos.

"So when they meet [face to face] they may not like the look of the other person.

"The internet is a meeting place where you'll meet like-minded people. If you meet in a pub they are likely to be boozer. If you are lonely, searching the sites for someone, chances are you'll meet a lonely person.

"Likewise if you frequent sex sites or sex mags, you are likely to meet swingers, which might not be a good idea if you're rich."

Melbourne Sexy Sensation Mills and Boon author Ally Blake said her tale of love at first sight, The Magnate's Indecent Proposal, where the hero and heroine court each other with text messages, was her most popular book.

"Courting in cyberspace may suit many people. When it comes down to it, social networking is the new local bar, a place to meet, without inhibitions.

"Befriending someone on Facebook, only to discover they weren't who you thought they were are only first steps. It's what happens next that makes a romantic relationship, or a romance novel."

Ms Blake will talk at Belgrave library, for Library Lovers Month, at 12.30pm on February 25. Bookings: 97547266.