Background Checks – To do them ? Or Not?
The big controversy now in on-line dating is the background check dilemma. Many of the states are beginning to suggest legislation that would require on-line dating websites to perform background checks on its members or state if they do not. This is creating quite a stir in the on-line dating world and with members both for and against the on-line date background checking rules.
The controversy began when the on-line dating scene was still fresh. This happened with a website that signed an exclusive contract with one of the Internet’s largest background checking services so that members could feel safe that they were not conversing with criminals. This at first may seem like a good idea since it will protect on-line daters from sharing personal information with people that have been known as sexual offenders or have committed fraud or other types of criminal acts. However the website mentioned earlier then began pushing legislation that would require on-line dating websites to perform background checks.
This website had 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 became 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 on-line scams from reoccurring and help people feel safe about using on-line dating websites. However it is also a type of invasion of privacy and many people will avoid on-line dating websites because they do not want a background check.
Summary
This controversial topic will be in the news for many years to come. There are already a few states that passed a law that require background checks. Users and on-line dating websites do have mixed feelings about this and before you state an opinion you should understand both sides of the argument. Making background checks mandatory could create a better on-line 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 on-line dating website background checks that are in your state, you should contact your local legislator’s office and ask questions. Voice your opinion and create change. Given this, background checks indicate the past but do not predict the future.
