It is a shallow idea that people can just find a partner on the internet or on mobile apps. Most people using such apps or websites are longing for love; they might be in a hurry to find a partner as they feel they are getting old or just dislike being single. But is “love” that easy to get off the net?

Modern love in Hong Kong: speed dating and ‘leftover women’

Love needs time to develop. It is difficult to find a stranger online and have them become your boyfriend or girlfriend on the first face-to-face meeting. Love should happen through gradual interaction and working on the relationship after meeting up often, communicating and showing you care.

I am sceptical about the love to be found by using these apps. It can also be dangerous, both emotionally and financially, as those duped are finding out only too late.

Patrick Leung, Sai Kung