Mozilla scrutinized a total of 25 dating apps from the point of view of data protection and gave 22 names the worst rating on its rating scale, “Privacy not included”. In the related report, it is highlighted that 80% of apps can share or sell users’ data for advertising purposes (Bumble was noted here as an example). But the researchers also pointed out:
Many platforms (eg Tinder and Hinge) access precise geographic data after obtaining permission from the user. The latter interface collects this data in the background even when it is not open, they emphasize. According to dating sites, this is necessary in order to be able to recommend better couples to the user, but if these get to data brokers, it can have serious consequences.
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While it wasn’t revealed exactly what ratings each app received, it is clear that Grindr earned one of the worst ratings. Meanwhile, dating sites are trying out new AI-based functions, and algorithms are working in the background to improve recommendations, yet researchers see no sign that dating sites are doing everything to protect user data.
It is therefore worthwhile to be careful when using dating apps and be more selective about what we share and what we give permission for, writes HVG based on the TechCrunch article. By the way, we also previously reported that the 10 Android apps that collect and share the most user data with other platforms have been identified.
