Dating Ads On Facebook

Hello Davao, Facebook’s Dating Feature has just rolled out, and I don’t like it.

To delete Facebook Dating, simply navigate to the general profile settings menu, scroll down to the “Account” section, and tap “Delete profile.”. You can choose to answer the questions, or simply tap “skip” in the upper right hand corner. Confirm your action by tapping “Delete.”. Deleting your Facebook Dating profile will not. Ads for adult friend finders or dating sites with a sexual emphasis aren't compliant. Ads for other online dating services are only allowed with prior authorization from Facebook. Visit the Advertiser Policy site for more detail on how the policy is applied. To be a registered dating partner, please contact your Facebook representative.

When I first heard about it, I didn’t think it was a good idea, and I still don’t. It popped up on my Facebook app today and I still don’t think its a good idea. Sigh. There’s no fighting it. Facebook’s Dating feature is here.

Why Do I See Dating Ads On Facebook

Before we talk about anything else, here’s something you should know.

Your profile is public by default in Facebook Dating

So in order to NOT appear in Facebook Dating, you first have to use/enable/edit this feature. Here’s how.

Go to your profile on your app and find click on this heart, where the chat used to be. This will lead you to the following images below:

It will basically ask you to edit your profile, and choose preferences.

After that, you can set your profile photo and Facebook will show you how your profile will look at, and then give you a mini tour of the features which are the messages and suggested matches.

Why is it creepy?

Well, it displays your profile publicly by default, and you can only find the terms AFTER you’ve already signed up. To save you the trouble and to make sure you read the terms, here they are.

Please note Limits on Liability which is on ALL CAPS, followed by the note that you are soley responsible for everything that happens on facebook dating. Because of course, you’re the one using the feature, even if it was Facebook who matched you with a complete stranger.

You take your own precautions.

I am personally not comfortable with all of these, especially since there’s so much information on your Facebook profiles. Even if you have Tinder, the information that’s there is only the information you added into the app. In this case, considering you’re super active on the app, it has ALL your information. Not to mention the other dangers.

Here’s an article by Felicia Cravens on the Washington Post about possible dangers with fake accounts and scams.

“People are scamming people right now on Facebook platforms from Nigeria, Macedonia, the Philippines and everywhere else.”

How to Turn Off your Dating Feature.

Dating Ads On Facebook

Go to the settings found on the upper right corner, and you’ll find the Delete Profile option.

And that’s it. Profile deleted.

Of course, whether you decide to use the feature or not, is up to you. And if you do decide to use this feature, I would advice to use it with caution.

There’s already so much fake news online, and fake people offline. Facebook’s dating feature for me is merging the two together, and voluntarily jumping into possible danger.

*Note: This feature is only default for profiles who are not marked as married or in a relationship.

Online dating services looking to advertise on Facebook must adhere to a set of standards outlined in the company’s advertising policies. Here, GDI takes a look at some of the restrictions.

First, dating sites must become ‘registered dating partners’ before posting an advert on Facebook. This can be applied for via an application form.

The form requires companies to submit test login details, information about any umbrella company and a brief description of the dating service provided.

Specific advertisements are then subject to further scrutiny – a promotion may not feature blurred images or selfies, and must not promote “Adult friend finder” or “Mail-order bride” type services.

The content of the advert cannot make reference to people who “have already searched for you!”, and cannot say that a user will be able to meet with fictitious individuals. The language should also avoid referencing specific age ranges.

Advertising can use audience targeting to reach out to specific groups, but only those who are above 18 and have their relationship status listed as ‘Single’ or ‘Unspecified’.

Facebook Business offers additional advice to dating companies looking to submit an advertisement. Their page on online dating reads:

“Ads for adult friend finders or dating sites with a sexual emphasis aren’t compliant. Ads for other online dating services are only allowed with prior authorization from Facebook. Visit the Advertiser Policy site for more detail on how the policy is applied.

“To be a registered dating partner, please contact your Facebook representative. If you don’t have a Facebook representative, fill out this form to begin your application process. The Policy team will contact you directly with an answer within 30 days.”

It is not clear whether Facebook Dating will need to adhere to the same restrictions in its advertising.

Read more here.