Dating sites for cheating

A study led by John Cacioppo of the University of Chicago's Department of Psychology found that "More than one third of U.S. marriages begin with online dating, and those couples may be slightly happier than couples who meet through other means."

But there's a darker flip side to online dating sites and popular apps like Tinder and Bumble — specifically, "married dating" sites, where cheating spouses-to-be can search for a willing partner in infidelity on the down-low.

Husbands and wives may vow to be there for each other, forsaking all others through sickness and health, until death do them part, but statistics show married men and women alike are cheating more frequently now than ever before. And naturally, online dating platforms are well aware of this fact.

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While we can't blame the online dating sites for creating this dilemma, the fact that there's actually a decent market for dating sites dedicated to married people wanting to have affairs baffles me a little. Why even get married if you're just going to be cruising around the dark online world of married dating sites?

Cheating is never OK, and IMO, this seems a little too far out the box, even for a social-media based society. But as unbelievable as it may sound, it's real.

Ashley Madison isn't the only site where you can get your cheating on, as evidenced by the following list of successful dating sites for married people.

That's why we rounded them all up for you — because we're helpful like that.

Here are 7 dating sites for married people who want to cheat:

1. Marital Affairs

Marital Affairs promises discretion and even gives some pointers for how to get the most effective results out of your affair.

Summary from the site itself: "Dating a married man or woman can be a dangerous and risky affair, but with us? Privacy is king. If you are looking for a secure form of adult dating then married dating with MA could be ideal. Just sign up and the risk and danger is limited to pleasurable amounts that come with the fast paced and sexy world or married dating."

Wow.

2. Married Secrets

Married Secrets looks pretty tacky, but I don't imagine that anyone browsing on this site would really care.

Summary from the site itself: "If you're married, but looking, Married secrets can help you find discreet married affairs that you take as far as you want, whether just a little flirting, a passionate encounter, romantic married affairs, married dating or affectionate companionship."

RELATED: 8 Things You Should Know About Cheaters, According To Science

3. Victoria Milan

Simple and to the point, Victoria Milan offers some pretty snazzy features — one being the 'panic button' (and yes, it's exactly what it sounds like).

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Summary from the site itself: "We show you other members near you, setting you up for those delicious, spontaneous, casual encounters."

4. Hush Affairs

While the name Hush Affair says it all, the motto says so much more: "Your desires are our secrets."

Summary from the site itself: "Friendship and even innocent flirt [sic] are just the beginning of the unforgettable experience our site will offer you. Here, you can find yourself a Partner of your dreams! Once you complete your profile, our unique system to assess mutual compatibility guarantees the best match for you."

But as Pretty Little Liars taught us, secrets are never kept for long.

5. Illicit Encounters

Illicit Encounters is the largest online dating site in the UK. That says quite a lot, I think, and none of it good.

Summary from the site itself: "Warning: Not everyone is suited to having an affair. They are not an alternative to working on or ending a marriage. Not all affairs have a positive effect on a marriage. Some can be very damaging. Always consider other people and if you are going to have an affair, please select your partner wisely."

The more you know ...

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6. Find New Passions

Find New Passions ... Because the old one died and an affair is the solution, right? Of course it is!

Summary from the site itself: "Most of us have always wanted to have a few extra-marital affairs every now and then. You need a time out from your difficult, sexless or loveless marriage ... Whether you are looking forward to indulging in exciting affairs with married men or women, keep it safe and confidential with Find New Passion. Are you married and looking? Ready to turn your fantasy into reality? Why not start with a married dating website that gives you a chance to reignite the spark of passion and feel alive again?"

7. Gleeden

Gleeden is the first extramarital site made by women only. And yes, they are very proud of that fact.

Summary from the site itself: "Whether you are looking for an affair in your area or a lover miles away from you while on a trip, Gleeden.com gives you a specific platform to safely get in touch with members worldwide! Let’s go! Gleeden.com is run daily by a 100% female team: women are empowered for ultra-discreet encounters!"

RELATED: The Truth Behind Why Married Men Cheat

Kiarra Sylvester is a freelance writer currently pursuing graduate degrees in human sexuality and social work at Widener University.