Criminal Record Checks for Online Dating Sites

In an attempt to make the Internet safer, New Jersey legislators are trying to pass a law that mandates all online dating sites to state clearly (using boldface type in a prominent location) whether or not they perform criminal background checks on all of their users - and if they do, whether or not sex offenders are allowed to use their services. [From Newsday]

Of course, most of the larger online dating sites are against such a law, and not just because it would require they change their web pages, but also because criminal record checks are notoriously difficult to use. Every state has different requirements and accessibility issues when it comes to these kinds of searches, and it is almost impossible to guarantee accuracy. Bill Ashworth, the Yahoo! employee who deals with state and federal regulations, said it best:

"Criminal background checks provide users of online dating with a false sense of security," he said. "The last thing we want users to do is let their guard down."

I agree with Mr. Ashworthy. I may pay more for an online dating service (such as True) that offers criminal record checks, but I would never assume that the site could possibly check for all kinds of criminal activity everywhere, nor do I think it removes my personal responsibility to ensure my own safety. What do you think?

Related Content: Finding a Safe Dating Personals Site