OkCupid Axes Usernames

OkCupid announced that they planned to wipe out usernames on their online dating site, which caused lots of uproar. Allure says that their move is an attempt to not only keep up with the times, but also with competitors like Tinder. In a letter to users, OkCupid said "We want you, BigDaddyFlash916, to go by who you are, and not be hidden beneath another layer of mystique." According to Allure, their attempt at transparency didn't sit well with some members, particularly those who are not cis-men. Allure adds, "a username can be critical to feeling safe on the site." After facing social media backlash, OkCupid backtracked on Friday. It will now allow members to use the "name they'd like to be called on the site," not necessarily their government names.