I find this to be a common dilemma on italki and in life.  As a result, men who have good intentions are viewed with suspicion.  I began my journey on italki with only one intention: language exchange.  I am fluent in my native language, which is English.  My English skills are advanced;  I have a Master's degree.  At times, I have helped people or made myself available to assist both males and females on italki, often with no acknowledgement or thanks.  I feel that many women have viewed me, a senior male, with suspicion.  I think that ageism is alive and well on italki and elsewhere.  After all, what could I be up to at my stage in life?  It must be ogling young women online... No!!!  I wanted to help folks with English that's all.  As someone who is retired and has extra time, I wanted to help.  So... perhaps italki is both language learning and social media.  And... maybe younger people want to interact with others their own age and that's okay.  The dating scene is no longer a part of my life.  The never ending battle of the sexes is an arena wherein passion and illogic reign.  I'm sick of myself being viewed, because of maleness, with suspicion.  Shame on you men who utilize sites like italki with alterior motives, it's sneaky, and shame on like-minded women too.  But if you connect with someone and a consentual relationship happens that's great too, but that happens over time.  My solution...  I simply utilize tutors and teachers on italki for Spanish learning.  That way, it's a paid contract with set rules and expectations.  My English skills are advanced and I'll keep them to myself,  community, friends and family.  I do help with notebook corrections sometimes on italki; it helps me to feel helpful.

you'll get less messages of that kind if you choose a profile picture just like mine)))

Anastasia, you are so cute, both in your profile picture  and reply. ^^ It makes sense. However, I'd rather put my picture on profile, because people usually prefer to know  whom they are talking to, and exchange languages with.

Anastasia, unfortunately a teacher or tutor can't put an image like you have in your profile.:)

It is stupid by itself to look for a language exchange on a dating website.