Background Checks in online relationships

 

The big controversy now in online dating is the background check dilemma. Many of the states are beginning to suggest legislation that would require online dating websites to perform background checks on its members or state if they do not.  This is creating quite a stir in the online dating world and with members both for and against the online date background checking rules.

The complete controversy began when the online dating scene was still fresh.  This happened with a website that signed an exclusive contract with the Internet’s largest background checking service so that members could be sure that they were not conversing with the criminals.  This at first may seem like a good idea since it will protect online daters from sharing personal information with people that have been known for sexual offenders or have committed fraud or other types of criminal acts. However this website than began pushing legislation that would require online dating websites to perform background checks.

 

This website has an exclusive contract and they would then force other websites to use more expensive background checking tools, and so the subscription fees would be more expensive. This would be controversial and also created a lot of free advertising for the initial background checking website.  To say the least, it was a way to rise above the competition. This however, did not come to light until many politicians had already jumped on with the background checking idea.

 

Checking a person’s background can be a good thing. It can prevent online scams from reoccurring and help people feel safe about using online dating websites. However it is also a type of invasion of privacy and many people will avoid online dating websites because they do not want a background check and people do change.

 

This is a situation that will be sure to be in the news for many years to come.  There are already a few states that passed a law that will require background checks.  Users and online dating websites do have mixed feeling about this and before you say your opinion you should be sure to understand both sides of the argument.  Making background checks mandatory could create a better online dating service for everyone.  However it could also mean that the free services would no longer be available and subscription services would be more expensive than they are now.  To learn more about the online dating website background checks that are out there in your state, you need to contact your local legislator’s office and ask about multiple questions. You should voice your opinion and you can create change.