Before your next date, Stud or Dud wants to run a background check

Dating apps have transformed modern romance, but they've also given rise to a new trend in online investigation before meeting potential partners. A new website called Stud or Dud, launched in beta on August 26 by PeopleFinders, aims to simplify this process for curious daters. By compiling public records, assets, marriages, and other data, the site provides users with a comprehensive background check on their matches.

Amber Higgins, CEO of PeopleFinders, explains that the platform fills a gap in the dating landscape where users often know more about their potential partners than the other way around. Users can search by name, phone number, or location to uncover details that might help them make a more informed decision. While a free initial report is available, additional insights require a subscription plan.

The "vibe check" plan costs $5 for a single search, while the "casual confident dater" plan at $8.97 per month and the "serial confident dater" plan at $19.97 per month offer more extensive reports. According to a 2024 survey by DatingAdvice.com, 64% of active daters look up potential partners online before meeting them, with women more likely to do so than men.

Some even go further, running background checks on dates. However, privacy concerns are also raised, with Stud or Dud explicitly prohibiting stalking, harassment, or any form of harm. The service does offer a way for users to request the removal of their information, but public records might still be accessible elsewhere. Despite the potential risks, Stud or Dud provides a convenient shortcut for a behavior that many daters are already engaged in.