Dating is supposed to be a fun and exciting experience for individuals looking for love and companionship. However, some individuals take it to the extreme by using dating as a means to commit murder. This twisted phenomenon is known as "dating to kill," and it has become a growing concern in the world of online dating.
What is "Dating to Kill?"
Dating to kill is a term used to describe individuals who use dating as a means to commit murder. These individuals create fake profiles on dating sites and apps to lure unsuspecting victims into meeting them in person. Once they have gained the trust of their victims, they use the opportunity to strike and take their lives.
The Rise of "Dating to Kill"
The rise of dating to kill can be attributed to the increasing use of online dating sites and apps. According to a report by Statista, there were 26.6 million users of online dating services in the United States in 2020. This number is expected to increase to 32.4 million by 2024.
The anonymity provided by online dating sites and apps has made it easier for these criminals to hide their true identities and intentions. They can easily create fake profiles and manipulate their victims into trusting them.
Famous Cases of "Dating to Kill"
One of the most famous cases of dating to kill is that of Stephen Port, a British serial killer who was convicted in 2016 of drugging and murdering four men he met on dating sites. Port used GHB, a date-rape drug, to incapacitate his victims before assaulting and killing them.
Another case is that of Danueal Drayton, an American man who was arrested in 2018 for the murder of a woman he met on a dating site. Drayton was also suspected of killing several other women he met online.
How to Stay Safe While Dating Online
While the rise of dating to kill is alarming, there are steps you can take to stay safe while dating online.
1. Do Your Research
Before meeting someone you've met online, it's important to do your research. Look up their name and any other information they've given you, such as their phone number or email address. You can also use online background check services to verify their identity.
2. Meet in Public
When meeting someone for the first time, always choose a public place. This can be a coffee shop, restaurant, or any other place where there are other people around. Avoid going to their home or inviting them to yours until you've gotten to know them better.
3. Tell Someone Where You're Going
Before meeting someone you've met online, let a friend or family member know where you're going and who you're meeting. Give them the person's name, phone number, and any other information you have about them.
4. Listen to Your Gut
If something doesn't feel right, trust your instincts. If someone is making you uncomfortable or pressuring you into doing something you don't want to do, end the date and leave.
The Future of Online Dating
As the use of online dating continues to grow, it's important for individuals to be aware of the potential dangers. Dating to kill is a real threat, and it's up to both the dating sites and users to take steps to prevent it from happening.
Dating Site Safety Measures
Dating sites can take several measures to increase safety for their users. These measures can include:
- Requiring users to provide more detailed information about themselves
- Verifying users' identities through background checks
- Using algorithms to identify suspicious behavior
- Implementing safety features such as panic buttons or GPS tracking
User Responsibility
Users also have a responsibility to stay safe while using online dating sites. This includes:
- Being cautious when interacting with strangers online
- Avoiding sharing personal information with someone you've just met
- Reporting suspicious behavior or profiles to the dating site
Dating To Kill
Dating to kill is a disturbing trend that has emerged in recent years. While the use of online dating sites and apps has made it easier for these criminals to prey on their victims, there are steps individuals can take to stay safe while using these services. By being cautious when interacting with strangers online and taking proactive measures to increase safety, individuals can protect themselves from becoming victims of dating to kill.
