On some level, it’s like why does this even exist? (enter epic facepalm)
It is explained,
“up to that first date, we’ve got you covered.”
Yup. And i was just waiting for them to say, “We’ll even guarantee that your first date goes great by having one of our employees personally chaperon you to make sure the date stays interesting or your money back on your Norton subscription!” (laughs)
“The cyber-sea of love can be overwhelming to navigate. It is estimated that there are approximately 5,000 online dating sites worldwide.” continues “The first thing you’ll want to check is if the website is a reputable site. We suggest that you stick to well-known websites and do some research.”
More like festering cesspool. I would say even what we may think about “well-known” Websites is controversial. You could say that match.com yes, it might be widely known, however, i’m not sure if i’ve heard necessarily stellar things about it.
In the paid versus free section it is explained, “This really depends on what you are looking for.” Let me put this in perspective. If you want to waste your time, yes, there are free sites for you.
“It may seem rather invasive, but it helps the site match you with people in your area and help you narrow down criteria in member searches.” Perhaps. Or, over time, when the government is looking for you will it give them direct access to you.
“these quizzes are to help match you with other like-minded individuals.” Quizzes were never any good for me. Just no.
“Does it reveal your photo only to members or also for online advertising? If so, is there an option to opt-out?” I thought that was a decent point.
“Of course, you want to create an enticing and attractive picture of yourself for others to see…”
Not particularly. You can attempt to “doll-up”, but, at the proverbial end of the day, you are what you are. Will the person be able to see past the superficial edifice to get to know the real you?
“Last year, a user was goofing around in his sister’s room…” Just so much no for that. It continues, “Which means it’s ok to go selfie crazy!” Absolutely not. This whole culture of the “selfie” has to go right out the window. Never have i seen such a self-absorbed, arrogant generation that does not show respect for its elders.
“While it may not seem harmful to give out your phone number or personal email address- don’t just yet.” I love how they put that qualifier at the end. How about, never. It goes on, “People can put on appearances online that aren’t actually true to their real life.” Ya’ think? (sarcasm)
“It’s even ok to not give someone your last name until the date is set up.” Ooops! They just cancelled.
“Catfishers will always make up excuses as to why they can’t meet you, talk on the phone or meet up on webcam.” Or, maybe they are just really shy. Meet up on webcam? How about, spare me. Good God.
“If you’ve been chatting up a potential sweetheart for a while…” Please, control yourself. (astonished expression)
“Don’t visit links sent to you by people you haven’t talked to for very long. Scammers will pose as a member and try to get their target to click on links, usually leading to porn…”
Wonderful. I would say, in general, unless you're skilled in virus remediation, just don’t do links AT ALL.
“The criminal can record the webcam session and they can use it to blackmail you.” Wonderful. It continues, “If the conversation you’re having starts to take an uncomfortable turn, it’s okay to disconnect the chat.” Yes, because i needed to be told this.
“So, you’ve decided to meet up.” I’m no expert, but, i would say that that is probably a mistake. (laughs)
Wrapping up (thank God) it is explained,
“There are so many great and engaging activities; speed dating, pub quizzes and cookery classes are some of the few offerings.”
“Speed dating” is a big NO. What is the old adage? Oh, yes. Haste makes waste. Quizzes, just no. God only knows what’s involved in “pub” quizzes. Cooking, just no. I’ll go to the diner and call it a night, thanks.
Concluding, i would like to go back to a former sentiment they expressed, that online dating can be, “extremely beneficial”. I guess that is in the eye of the beholder. As you can tell, i am someone who takes a more realistic view on some of these things. I believe deeper issues remain. What is the premise of dating? Is it to foster a mere friendship? Is it to potentially start a family? If the latter, even more concerns have to be weighed as the state of affairs in this world is increasingly dark. I found it interesting that this was anonymously published, fancy that.
Take care,
H.B.
Ref:- https://us.norton.com/internetsecurity-privacy-ultimate-guide-online-dating.html