This came up in conversation recently and I realized I don't actually know the answer. Private show pricing is where most sites make their money. Always check the per-minute rate before starting.
Buffering issues are almost always on the user's internet side rather than the platform these days. Most platforms block adblockers now, which is annoying but pretty understandable from their side.
Video call before you meet — it's the fastest way to confirm someone is who they say they are.