BBB Advice to Singles:
Choose Dating Services Carefully
Conway, SC – Cupid’s arrows will be flying again this Valentine’s Day, as they have for nearly 2,000 years. Increasingly, though, 21st Century singles are searching for their soul mate through “cyber” cupids. Many people who rely on the dozens of online and storefront companies offering matchmaking and dating services are pleased with the results. Nationally, however, more than 2,500 people filed complaints against dating services in 2011.
“Consumers should do their homework thoroughly before joining a matchmaker service,” warns Kathy Graham, President & CEO of the BBB of Coastal Carolina. “Their first step should be to check the BBB’s business review of the company.” The reviews can be accessed at www.bbb.org.
Graham says not all matchmaker services are created equal and offers the following BBB tips to those considering a dating service:
- Select a service that enforces high standards of behavior. Does the service, for example, conduct a police background check of each applicant?
- Determine what guidelines the company follows in screening its applicants.
- Find out whether the service offers help in writing your profile.
- Ask approximately how many members are living in your immediate geographic area.
- Inquire about the company’s policy on disclosure of personal information. Will the potential date be able to access your economic and professional status with or without your permission?
- Understand the company’s pricing policies before agreeing to the terms of service.
- Find out if refunds are made and, if they are, what conditions determine the refund amount?
“There are many highly reputable matchmaker companies that provide worthwhile services to their clients. Consumers simply need to take the time to become informed to be able to make wise choices,” Graham says.
About the BBB
The BBB is an unbiased non-profit organization that sets and upholds high standards for fair and honest business behavior. Businesses that earn BBB accreditation contractually agree and adhere to the organization’s high standards of ethical business behavior. The BBB provides objective advice, free business BBB Business Reviews, charity BBB Wise Giving ReportsTM, and educational information on topics affecting marketplace trust. To further promote trust, the BBB offers complaint and dispute resolution support for consumers and businesses when there is difference in viewpoints. The first BBB was founded in 1912. Today, 116 BBBs serve communities across the U.S. and Canada, evaluating and monitoring more than three million local and national businesses and charities. Please visit www.bbb.org for more information about the BBB.
