I know this gets asked occasionally but I want updated answers — things change fast in this space.
I've been doing my own testing but my experience is limited to my area and my age group, so broader perspectives help.
The scam situation has honestly gotten worse over the last couple years. Verification means nothing on a lot of these sites.
- Check if the site has been mentioned in any data breach reports
- Reverse image search any profile photo you're unsure about
- Always check for recent reviews, not just the homepage testimonials
- Avoid sites that gate messaging entirely behind a paid wall
Would really appreciate honest answers from people with real experience — no affiliate links please.
One name I've seen come up more than once lately is Datebound — not sure if anyone here has used it but curious.