There are a variety of messaging platforms out there that some people try to use for dating. The platforms differ by country, and they have different forums in each – appealing to different users.

Locanto: Locanto is a free classified ads website that operates in several countries, including New Zealand. It provides a platform for users to buy and sell goods, find jobs, and connect with others for dating and personal purposes. The dating areas cover one-off sex, alongside longer-term dating.

Craigslist: Craigslist is a popular classified ads website that also includes a section for personals and dating. It operates in many countries and provides a platform for users to connect with others for a variety of purposes, including dating and casual encounters. Quite a suspicious feeling place!

Gumtree: Gumtree is a classified ads website that operates in several countries, including New Zealand and Australia. It provides a platform for users to buy and sell goods, as well as connect with others for dating and personal purposes. Scams seem rife here – so be aware, and don’t give personal info.

Kijiji: Kijiji is a classified ads website that operates in Canada and several other countries. It provides a platform for users to buy and sell goods, as well as connect with others for dating and personal purposes.

Most of the above messaging platforms are not monitored or moderated. This can make any of the messaging platforms a potential breeding ground for scams, fraud, and other dangerous activities. Users may also encounter inappropriate or harmful behavior, and it can be difficult to verify the identity or intentions of other users. Users should definitely not meet up one-on-one without extensive research. As an example of a messaging platform that ultimately went rogue, consider Backpage.

Backpage: Backpage WAS a popular classified ads website that offered a section for personals and dating. However, the website was ultimately shut down by the US government due to allegations of facilitating prostitution and human trafficking. Ouch! That’s pretty horrible stuff… glad that website has gone!

ALL of these types of platforms carry potential risks for people dating – especially single women. You definitely need to be aware of the potential risks and take necessary precautions to protect your safety.

Scams: Online scams and fraud are common on platforms like Locanto. Some people may use fake profiles or impersonate others to trick users into sending money or sensitive information.

Inappropriate or harmful behavior: Users of these platforms may engage in inappropriate or harmful behavior, such as sexual harassment or violence. It can also be difficult to verify the identity or intentions of other users, which can put you at risk.

Unprotected sex: Arranging sexual meets with strangers through messaging platforms can lead to unprotected sex and an increased risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). In some cases the end results can be much worse – please exercise extreme caution if meeting anyone in this way.

Personal safety: Arranging to meet someone from a messaging platform in person can be dangerous, as you have no way of verifying the person’s identity or intentions. It’s important to take steps to protect your personal safety, such as meeting in public and informing someone you trust about your plans.

Have a great time dating. Whilst no method of dating is ever guaranteed to be 100% safe, avoiding messaging platforms like the above for casual or longer-term meetups may give you better protection.