Founder Andrew Conru Asserts No Bots in FriendFinder Network

CAMPBELL, Calif.—FriendFinder Networks has issued an unequivocal statement on its position regarding the use of “bots” on adult dating sites, and in a nutshell stated that no such computer-generated accounts are used on sites in its networks. The statement was prompted, of course, by the recent uproar surrounding adult dating site Ashley Madison, particularly allegations that it had used computer-generated female “bots” to converse with men on the site to induce them to become paying members. FriendFinder Networks, operator of some of the largest, and most visited dating websites in the world—from adult-oriented AdultFriendFinder to traditional dating sites like FriendFinder and AsiaFriendFinder—clarified its position and policies on bots in the statement, released today. "FriendFinder does not and has never created and used computer-generated accounts to garner business on any of its sites," commented Dr. Andrew Conru, chairman and founder of FriendFinder. "We have never, and will never, create accounts purportedly belonging to real people in order to converse with other members, or for any other reason.” “This win-at-any-cost business practice is repugnant to us; it shows a total lack of respect for the users that support these sites. Companies that cannot commit to stop charging people money to interact with their self-created bots need to exit this industry,” Conru said. FriendFinder believes its policy on this issue is unique in the adult dating space and challenges its competitors to publicly make similar assurances to their members.