This came up in conversation recently and I realized I had no good answer. Use a Google Voice number instead of your real number when getting to know someone new.
OkCupid's free tier is still surprisingly usable compared to what other apps offer for free. Never share your real last name, address, or workplace before meeting someone in person.
Free dating apps have gotten better but the best features are still paywalled on most.
Apps I've been looking at:
- Bumble BFF
- Hinge
- Coffee Meets Bagel
- Zoosk