Facebook unveils "Secret Crush" feature that's creepy AF

It looks like Facebook is now pulling double duty as both social media platform and potential matchmaker. While it won’t be available in the U.S. until later this year, the Facebook Dating feature titled “Secret Crush” is just as creepy as it sounds—especially considering the number of privacy issues the social media platform has endured already.

Think of it as Tinder meets Facebook, except you’re picking specific friends you want to date.

Because those unsolicited Facebook messages weren’t creepy enough.

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Yesterday, Facebook announced they would be rolling out the feature as part of their larger, opt-in Facebook Dating option.

“Secret Crush” aims at connecting Facebook friends who may not be aware that they’re mutually interested in one another.

According to Wired, users will be able to select up to nine friends they want to express interest in.

If someone adds you to their “Secret Crush” list you’ll get a notification saying “A friend added you as a secret crush.” Then, if you pick the same person for your list, Facebook will play matchmaker and reveal your names.

If the “Secret Crush” is one-sided, the identity will remain anonymous.

According to The Verge, you’ll be able to add any Facebook friend as a “Secret Crush” even if they have not created a dating profile.

This is the part where you wrack your brain trying to figure out who the hell it is that has this crush on you.

The feature is currently only available in countries where Facebook has rolled out it’s Facebook Dating feature, which will reportedly hit the U.S. later this year.


It’s pretty obvious that there are a few ways this feature could go terribly wrong. For one, it’s an easy way to prank people with false pretenses. Plus, there’s no telling what could come of all that extra info you’re giving up to Facebook.

However, the social media giant claims it won’t use content from Facebook Dating or “Secret Crush” for advertising purposes.

“All activity that occurs in FB Dating stays in FB Dating and will not be shared externally,” a Facebook spokesperson tells Wired in an email.

Do you think “Secret Crush” is a good idea? Would you be willing to give Facebook Dating a try? Sound off in the comments below!

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