This comes up constantly so here's my complete breakdown.
Privacy defaults are almost never in your favor. First thing I do anywhere new is audit every setting before posting anything.
Things that have actually helped me:
- Free trial is usually enough to judge real user quality
- Bots tend to reveal themselves in the first exchange if you say something specific
- Location-based platforms usually have better engagement than broad national ones
- Premium is occasionally worth it — but only if the free version shows real activity
Currently using Luvdate as my main go-to and it's been solid. No major issues, decent activity, enough settings to feel in control.
Take what's useful and leave the rest. Every situation is a bit different.