I met my fantastic wife online. I do think it is easier for men than women. Especially in our demographic 40+.
I found dating sites a good way to start relationships.
Every now and then I would think "how old are those pictures?"
But for the most part after a couple of emails and maybe a phone call, she and I would know if we wanted to continue.
Your travails were not the fault of the dating site, IMHO.