[softwaredoug]

I think the problem is going from completely anonymous to a date. You could be putting yourself in a really vulnerable position with a rando. There's really no proof this person is not a psychopath, to put it bluntly.

In social groups, there's at least some social proof of this other person is likely safe. You know them by reputation. You may even be introduced to them or someone vouched for them.

IMO, for this reason, things like meetup groups, or other IRL social groups, with some level of group norms, where relationships can develop organically (into friendships, or whatever), with really no expectation of dating are probably the most appropriate. I met my wife in a local hiking group. It was its own social circle, and we went on trips together. Some people dated. Some people became friends, etc...

So, I guess, no there's no way to fix online dating :) unless you can solve the underlying social proof problem that develops more organically IRL settings.

[HPsquared]

Finally a use for the metaverse!