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County of Los Angeles |
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Internet Dating Services
Love may have always been in the air but now it’s on the internet too. Today, meeting new people is only a mouse click away. Membership based dating websites offer you access to singles looking to meet other people. If internet dating interests you, the following tips can help you choose the right service and avoid problems with your membership.
Shopping for a Dating Service
There are dozens of dating services operating on the internet. Some cater to a wide variety of age groups and backgrounds, while others are geared to specific age groups, ethnicities, or religious beliefs. You can use popular search engines like Google or Yahoo to help locate a service that’s right for you.
Trial Memberships
Many online dating services offer trial memberships that let you search their site free of charge for a short time. However, a paid membership is usually required if you want to contact other members. Be sure to read the terms of a trial membership before you sign up. Some automatically enroll you if you do not cancel before the trial period ends.
Matching and Profiles
Some services have you complete questionnaires and then match you with other members based on your answers. Others simply allow you to create a profile and view profiles of other members. You make contact with other members by sending them an email.
A profile includes information about your hobbies, interests, values, and the kind of person you would like to meet. It may also include your photo.
Online Safety
When creating your online profile, it is best to use a nickname or a name you make up, not your real name. To protect yourself, your online profile should not include your:
- Full or last name
- Phone number
- Address
- Place of employment
Identifying information should only be given out when you are comfortable doing so. If someone pressures you for personal information, or makes you feel uncomfortable, don’t respond to them. Notify the dating service of the problem.
Privacy and Safeguards
Before signing up, ask about the safety features the service provides. Most services use online privacy safeguards. These may include “double-blind” email systems that allow you to email other members without them knowing your personal email address.
Some also provide safety features that allow you to block messages from people you don’t wish to have contact with. Always report problem members to the service provider.
Canceling the Contract
Review the cancellation policy before you sign up. You have a three-day right to cancel if the service is headquartered in California. Also, determine if the provider uses automatic renewals or if your membership simply expires at the end of the term.
Billing Errors
If you experience billing problems with your membership, contact your provider’s customer service department or your credit card company to dispute the charge. If you’re still having problems, call us for assistance.
Civil Code 1694.1
Contact us for more information or speak with one of our counselors at (800) 593-8222. If you live outside of Southern California, call us at (213) 974-1452.
Updated May 5, 2008
For more information:
County of Los Angeles Department of Consumer Affairs
B-96 Kenneth Hahn Hall of Administration
500 W. Temple Street *
Los Angeles, CA 90012-2706
Telephone (800) 593-8222 (within LA County)
web site: dca.lacounty.gov