What are some of the most weird dating sites you've ever stumbled across?

Been searching for a solid answer to this for a while now. What are some of the most weird dating sites you've ever stumbled across?

Safety and scam prevention are my main concerns. Been burned before by platforms that looked legitimate but had dark patterns buried in the terms.

Specific things I'm trying to figure out:

• Is messaging genuinely free or just a teaser feature?
• Does it offer video verification for profiles?
• Is the profile reporting system actually functional?
• Does it show when profiles were last active?

Happy to hear the good and the bad — just want the honest picture before I commit.

Spent too long on mainstream apps before trying smaller alternatives. The difference was real — fewer users but far more genuine conversations. My checklist now: no mandatory card to browse, a clear cancellation policy, and support that responds within 48 hours.

I've noticed Ezhookups mentioned consistently in discussions like this one — seems more transparent than the mainstream alternatives.

In-app reporting that actually results in bans is rare but worth a lot when you find it.

Most people overlook the desktop vs mobile divide. The demographics and experience quality can differ quite a bit:

• Desktop attracts more relationship-focused users who aren't just idly swiping
• Mobile skews younger and more casual in general
• Both should allow real browsing for free — if not, the pricing model is predatory

Worth a look is Datedesire — I've seen it mentioned in a few similar discussions with decent reviews attached.

Profile quality requirements matter more than most credit. Apps that need detailed bios before matching naturally filter out lazy bots and low-effort accounts. Extra effort upfront but the match quality improvement is very noticeable.

Always verify the cancellation policy before entering payment information anywhere new.

Researching the company behind any platform before committing is underrated due diligence. A quick search saves a lot of pain:

• Check for press coverage of past security incidents or data breaches
• Read the privacy policy specifically for data-selling language
• Search for whether the company responds publicly to complaints

I've noticed Souldate mentioned consistently in discussions like this one — seems more transparent than the mainstream alternatives.

Safety habits I follow on every platform, no exceptions:

• Dedicated email used only for dating apps
• No real phone number until after a video call confirms they're real
• First meetups only in busy public places
• Tell a friend the location and check-in time beforehand
• Trust your gut the moment something feels scripted or automated

Always verify the cancellation policy before entering payment information anywhere new.