Finding love is hard enough. Finding love when you have specific spiritual criteria, like keeping the Sabbath or adhering to a plant-based diet, is even harder. That’s where niche sites like AdventistSingles (TheSingleAdventist.com) get popular.
I analyzed dozens of dating platforms, not just for their matching algorithms, but for their security, legitimacy, and privacy practices. You want to find a soulmate, not a scammer.
In this deep-dive review, we’ll answer the burning question: Is AdventistSingles safe and legit? We’ll cover how it works, the real costs hidden behind the “free trial,” and crucial tips on how to stay safe, including why you should never log in without a VPN.
What is AdventistSingles?
AdventistSingles is a niche dating platform specifically designed for members of the Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) Church. Unlike general dating apps like Tinder or Hinge, which cast a wide net, this site focuses on connecting singles who share specific faith-based values, lifestyle choices (like vegetarianism), and cultural backgrounds.
The “Brand” Confusion
It’s important to note that “Adventist Singles” is often used as a catch-all term. However, the most prominent player in this space is part of the Spark Networks portfolio (the same company behind Jdate and Christian Mingle) or operated as part of the Adventist Singles Connection.
- Target Audience: Single SDA members looking for serious relationships, marriage, or fellowship.
- Key Features: Detailed religious questionnaires, “Spotlight” profile boosting, and message boards.
- Vibe: Conservative, marriage-minded, and community-focused.
While the user base is smaller than mainstream giants, the intent is higher. People aren’t usually here for casual hookups; they are here to find a partner to pray with.
Is AdventistSingles Legit?
Yes, AdventistSingles is a legitimate dating platform. It is not a “scam site” in the sense that it exists to steal your money without providing a service. It has been around in various forms for over a decade and has facilitated thousands of marriages within the church.
However, “legit” doesn’t mean “perfect.”
What’s Good?
- Longevity: The site has a long track record.
- Real Success Stories: You can find genuine testimonials from couples who met on the platform.
- Niche Filtering: The algorithm understands SDA-specific nuances (e.g., “conservative” vs. “liberal” Adventist).
What’s Bad (and Why Users Complain)
Legitimacy disputes often come from users who feel the pricing model is predatory (more on that later) or who encounter inactive profiles. Since the dating pool is smaller, you might see the same faces for months, or match with people who haven’t logged in since 2018.
A site can be legit and still be frustrating. AdventistSingles delivers on its promise to connect you with Adventists, but its technology often feels dated compared to modern apps.
Is AdventistSingles Safe?
Safety is relative. Is the platform secure? Generally, yes. Are the people on it safe? That’s where you need to be careful.
1. Scammers and Catfish
No dating site is immune to romance scams, and religious sites are often targeted because scammers assume the users are more trusting and charitable.
- Red Flag: A match who claims to be an Adventist missionary overseas and needs money for a plane ticket or medical emergency.
- Red Flag: Someone who wants to move the conversation to WhatsApp or Google Chat immediately.
2. Verification Features
AdventistSingles offers some profile verification tools, but they aren’t mandatory for everyone. This means fake profiles do slip through the cracks. The site moderators rely heavily on user reports to catch bad actors.
3. Data Privacy
Like most dating sites, AdventistSingles collects a significant amount of personal data: your religious views, your photos, your location, and your payment info.
- Risk: Data breaches are a reality in the dating industry (remember the Ashley Madison leak?).
- Solution: Use a VPN to mask your IP address and create a dedicated email address for dating to compartmentalize your digital footprint.
How to Use AdventistSingles and Find Your Love?
If you’re ready to take the plunge, here is how the process works.
Step 1: The Sign-Up
Registration is fairly lengthy compared to swiping apps. You will answer questions about:
- Your church attendance habits.
- Your diet (Vegan? Vegetarian? Meat-eater?).
- Your stance on alcohol and tobacco (usually a hard “no” for SDAs).
- Your personality type.
Step 2: Creating a Profile
Pro Tip: Upload at least 3-4 high-quality photos. Profiles with only one blurry selfie are often ignored or flagged as potential bots. Be honest in your bio—mention your favorite Bible verse or your Sabbath afternoon hobbies.
Step 3: Browsing and Matching
The site uses a “match percentage” based on your questionnaire answers. You can browse profiles by location, age, and activity level.
Step 4: Communicating (The Paywall)
This is where most users get stuck.
- Free Users: Can usually send “Smiles” or “Likes” but cannot send personalized messages.
- Premium Users: Can send/receive messages, see who viewed their profile, and browse anonymously.
Is AdventistSingles Free? Pricing
Technically, AdventistSingles offers a free trial, but it is highly restricted. You can look, but you can’t touch (digitally speaking). To have a real conversation, you need to subscribe.
Pricing (Estimates, subject to change):
- 1 Month: ~$16.99 – $29.99
- 3 Months: ~$12.99/month
- 6 Months: ~$9.99/month
Is it worth it? If you live in an area with a high density of Adventists (like Loma Linda or Berrien Springs), you might not need this site. But if you are isolated and looking for a partner who shares your faith, the subscription cost is cheaper than driving 200 miles to the nearest singles mixer.
How to Protect Your Privacy on Dating Sites?
As a privacy expert, I cannot stress this enough: Dating sites leak data.
When you use a dating app, you are broadcasting your location to the service provider and potentially to other users (via “distance” features).
Why You Need a VPN for Dating
- Secure Public Wi-Fi: If you are checking your messages at a coffee shop or airport, a VPN encrypts your connection, preventing hackers on the same network from intercepting your login credentials.
- Hide Your Precise Location: While the app needs your general area to find matches, you don’t want your IP address revealing your exact home network. A VPN masks your IP, adding a layer of anonymity.
- Access from Anywhere: Some countries or strict workplace networks block dating sites. A VPN allows you to bypass these restrictions securely.
How to Use a VPN with AdventistSingles
- Download a Reputable VPN
- Connect to a Server: Choose a server location near you (to keep connection speeds fast) but not too specific if you want to mask your city.
- Log In: Open the AdventistSingles app or website. Your traffic is now encrypted.
Practical Tips for Success on AdventistSingles
- Be Clear About Your “Brand” of Adventist: Are you “conservative” (skirts only, KJV only) or “liberal”? Be upfront. It saves everyone time.
- Video Chat Before Meeting: Use Skype or Zoom to verify the person is real. If they refuse to video chat after a week of talking, they are likely a catfish.
- Don’t Move Too Fast: Spiritual connection can create a false sense of intimacy. Take your time to get to know the person behind the profile.
- Report Suspicious Activity: If someone asks for money, gift cards, or crypto, report them to the site support immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is the AdventistSingles app free?
The app is free to download, and creating a profile is free. However, reading and sending messages requires a paid subscription.
2. How do I delete my AdventistSingles account?
Go to your Account Settings > Profile Display > Remove my Profile. Be aware that this usually just “hides” your profile. To permanently delete data, you may need to contact customer support directly.
3. Can I use AdventistSingles without a picture?
Technically yes, but your success rate will be near zero. Most users filter out profiles without photos, and it raises immediate suspicion of being a scammer.
4. Are there fake profiles on AdventistSingles?
Yes. While the site fights them, no platform is 100% clean. Look for profiles with detailed bios and multiple photos. If a profile has one photo and bad grammar, steer clear.
5. What is the difference between AdventistSingles and AdventistContact?
AdventistContact is an older, separately run ministry that is known for being more conservative and using a rigorous matching process (paper forms in the past, now digital). AdventistSingles is more commercial and operates like a standard dating site.
Final Thoughts
So, is AdventistSingles safe and legit?
Yes, it is a legitimate tool for Seventh-day Adventist singles to find like-minded partners. It offers a safer environment than Craigslist or Tinder, but it is not without its flaws. The cost is significant, and you must remain vigilant against scammers.
My advice? Use the free trial to see if there are active members in your area. If you decide to subscribe, protect your digital life by using a VPN and following smart cybersecurity practices.
Ready to secure your online dating life? Check out our Blog for more tips on privacy and digital security.
