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Dating App Usage, Casual Sex, and the Transmission of STDs
The dating app industry experienced a surge of new users during the COVID-19 pandemic, as quarantined adults across the nation looked for what they craved most: human connection. In fact, according to the Pew Research Center, in 2021, 30% of American adults, or approximately 77.5 million individuals, reported that they have either used dating apps in the past or were currently using one. Furthermore, 11% of adults reported having used a dating app within the past year, equaling roughly 28.4 million adults in the United States. Although dating apps facilitated much-needed human interaction during a time of uncertainty and isolation for many adults, their continued increased use by new and regular users could have increased the spread of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).
Dating Can Be Casual but Safe Sex is Serious
Dating apps allow users to date outside of their friend groups, workplaces, and the regulars at their favorite coffee shops or bars. While the opportunity to date “outside the pond” is a perk for most users that want to avoid messy breakups or awkward blind dates, the lack of real-life strings attached to matches online results in a more casual approach to dating. Casual dating can be great for some, who, for a variety of reasons, may not be looking for serious and long-term commitment at the time. However, one of the downsides of casual dating is the tendency for participants to omit or gloss over serious conversations about safe sexual practices and histories of STDs or sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Do Not Blindly Trust Strangers with Your Physical Health
STD Lawsuits and Your Privacy
Lawsuits involving sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are often complex, sensitive, and deeply personal. As a result, most individuals looking to pursue legal action after contracting an STD from a sexual partner, often have many concerns about keeping their identity hidden so that their private information does not become public knowledge. In lawsuits that include some form of sexual assault, sexual abuse, or sexual contact resulting in the transmission of STDs, the court may additionally permit known individuals to conceal their names with pseudonyms to protect their identity. Here’s what you need to know.
How The Courts Keep Anonymity in STD Lawsuits
STD lawsuits are heard in civil court, which means that they are open to the public. However, there are some exceptions. For example, if you live in a state that allows sealed records in civil cases, your STD lawsuit may be heard on camera, which means that it would not be open to the public. Additionally, if you and the defendant reach a confidential settlement agreement, the terms of the agreement will not be made public.
In short, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. However, an experienced STD lawyer can help you understand your rights and options under the law. Speak with your attorney about your options and work together to come up with a plan that works for you.
Are You Looking to Pursue Legal Action But Want to Remain Anonymous?
If you or someone you know is seeking to pursue legal action regarding an STD and wishes to protect your privacy, having a lawyer knowledgeable about what steps you can take is essential. At KMD Law we believe in our clients getting the justice they deserve while maintaining a high level of privacy and sensitivity.
Contact us today at (833) 456-3529 for a free consultation.
