Swipe Left on Shady Apps: Dating Apps Exposed for Poor Data Privacy

Dating apps, a ubiquitous presence in modern romance, might be swiping right on your data and selling it off the market. A recent report by the Mozilla Foundation throws a spotlight on the dark side of these seemingly harmless apps, revealing a concerning lack of data privacy for users.

The report paints a grim picture: 22 out of 25 dating apps audited by Mozilla were found to be disregarding their own privacy policies. This translates to a significant portion of the market potentially selling user data to advertising agencies and other companies for hefty profits.

What kind of data are we talking about?

The report dives deep, uncovering how these apps collect a range of personal information, often presented as optional but ultimately mandatory for using the service. This includes location data, which can be accessed even when the app isn't in use, raising serious privacy concerns. Additionally, some apps go a step further, harvesting metadata associated with photos you upload, revealing details like your phone model and location.

Experts warn against using social media logins for dating apps. This creates a wider web of data sharing, potentially exposing even more personal information from your social media profiles.

The takeaway?

Before diving headfirst into the world of online dating, take a moment to understand the app's data practices. Read the privacy policy thoroughly, be cautious about the information you share, and consider using a burner account separate from your social media profiles. Remember, in the age of online dating, informed swiping is just as crucial as a good profile picture.