(Last Updated on October 16, 2019 by Datezie Editors)
In case you missed it, Facebook officially rolled out their dating app this week to the United States. We’ve talked about this social media megahouse’s dip into the matchmaking scene before (see here) but now that it’s made its way to America, experts predict it’s about to give other sites a run for their users. Though it’s off to a promising new start, there are a few hiccups that could be problematic.
One of the biggest? The fact that Facebook Dating makes it super-easy for coupled-up folks to cheat on their partners.
When you opt into the dating service, you’re required to download a new app. Though it’s technically part of Facebook and you can use your existing account to log in, it doesn’t pull your relationship status. This means it’s pretty simple to check ‘single’ when in reality you’re married or in a committed duo. Part of the reason Facebook does this is so your friends aren’t alerted that you’re on the hunt for love if you’d like to keep it private. “Your Facebook friends won’t know you’re using Dating unless you choose to tell them. Your current Facebook friends will never be suggested as matches, and you can choose whether you want friends of your Facebook friends suggested as matches — or if you’d prefer to match with people outside your friends of friends,” according to Facebook’s FAQ on the dating app.
Another way it makes it easy to sneak around is via the ‘Secret Crush’ option, which basically lets one of your current Facebook friends know you’re into them. If you happen to keep company of old ex-lovers or people who won’t care if you’re in a relationship or not, this is a stress-free way to break the ice.
Since Facebook dating is set up much like other swiping apps like Tinder or Hinge, it’s predicted many people will hop on the trend. Just remember though, if someone wants to cheat — they’ll find a way. And if you don’t trust your partner, it’s time to have some serious chats to better communicate your needs and your feelings within your relationship.
Even if Facebook makes it streamlined to stray — you’re better off with someone you’d never have to worry about in the first place.
