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Introducing ‘Cloaking,’ the Latest Dating Trend Tormenting Hopeful Singles

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18.10.2026

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Introducing ‘Cloaking,’ the Latest Dating Trend Tormenting Hopeful Singles

It’s like ghosting, but worse. A dating expert explains why some people stand up their dates, block them, and disappear without a word.

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Can you imagine a dating trend more evil than ghosting? Unfortunately, “cloaking” takes the cake on this one.

This dating trend was coined by Rachel Thompson “after a truly terrible dating experience.” In a video for Mashable, she defined cloaking as “being stood up—but extra.”

Here’s how to spot the common yet hurtful behavior in your own dating life, and why it’s becoming so common today.

What Is the ‘Cloaking’ Dating Trend? 

According to Dr. Sabrina Romanoff, PsyD, Harvard-trained clinical psychologist and relationship expert at Hily Dating App, “[cloaking] is when a person decides to sever all connection with you.”

“It often occurs after they stand you up for a date,” she adds. “Instead of maintaining ties, and potentially dealing with the consequences of their actions, they block........

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