- Online dating poses safety concerns for women, requiring heightened caution.
- Silicon Valley’s diminished focus on trust and safety sparks ethical concerns amid rising online harm.
- As women navigate the virtual realm of potential connections, ensuring safety is paramount.
Embarking on an adventure of online dating can be as thrilling as it is nerve-wracking, like stepping into a virtual candy store filled with potential sweethearts. As we dive into the world of right and left swipes, profiles, and witty bios, it’s important to acknowledge the caution that comes with the fun.
Just like in the real-world dating scene, online dating has its own set of perils, and for all the ladies out there trying their luck at online dating, ensuring safety is key. Online platforms are now as dangerous as ever.
Online Dating Platforms: Trust and Safety Concerns in Big Tech
In 2017, Big Tech ( Meta, Amazon, Microsoft, Google) took a giant leap into the world of trust and safety (T&S) in response to mounting concerns about online harm, marking a significant shift after two decades of no action. The T&S industry saw substantial investments, and its potential was underscored by projections indicating a soaring trajectory — estimated to reach a whopping $20 billion annually by 2024.
However, now this has dramatically dropped in the past year at Silicon Valley. Eliminations have swept through notable players like X/Twitter, Meta, and online dating platforms, resulting in reductions in team leads, headcount, and budgets. The repercussions have extended beyond mere numbers; individuals deeply committed to online safety have either been laid off or opted to exit the industry altogether.
What’s becoming increasingly apparent is Silicon Valley’s adherence to a growth-at-all-costs mindset, seemingly indifferent to the very real human toll of online harm. This indifference persists, even in the face of rising shareholder demands, raising critical questions about the ethical considerations governing the tech industry’s pursuit of relentless expansion.
High Rates of Assault and Abuse Emerge from Online Dating
ProPublica’s 2019 survey revealed a disturbing 31% of women reporting sexual assault or rape by someone they met on online dating sites. Similarly, the app, ‘Garbo’s’ polls found alarming figures, with 36% of men and 44% of women experiencing physical, sexual, or verbal abuse from at least one online date. These statistics underscore the urgent need for enhanced safety measures within the online dating sphere.
Also Read:
Meet the Australian Biker Conquering North Pakistan on Her Motorbike
How to Ensure Safety of Women in the Age of Online Dating
Unified Reporting System:
Establish a nationwide, organised reporting system for gender-based violence perpetrators, ensuring consistent processing across all jurisdictions. Non-compliance should incur penalties to ensure accountability.
Fair Credit Reporting Act Amendment:
Update the Fair Credit Reporting Act to reflect the digital age, preventing predators from obscuring their past. This amendment ensures survivors have access to historical records without fear of repercussions, allowing informed decisions about safety.
Affordable Access to Public Records:
Guarantee free or low-cost access to public records for individuals, shifting fees onto businesses. A sliding scale tied to company revenue ensures larger corporations bear the financial burden, supporting government maintenance costs.
Privacy Settings and Information Sharing:
Women need to familiarize themselves with customize privacy settings on the platform to control the information they share. Avoid sharing sensitive personal details, such as home addresses or financial information, until you feel comfortable to do so.
Follow WOW360 for more.