Dating Apps Silent on Reports of Sexual Violence: What They’re Not Telling Users

PHOENIX — As the popularity of dating apps skyrockets, so do concerns about user safety. While many individuals successfully find connections online, some face significant risks.

The 12News I-Team has uncovered that when U.S. lawmakers sought insights regarding user safety from Match Group—a major player in the dating app market—the response was found lacking. This discrepancy highlights a gap in transparency surrounding incidents of violence linked to these platforms.

In a letter sent to Match Group in February 2020, Representatives Jan Schakowsky and Annie Kuster sought specifics on complaints related to sexual violence across apps like Tinder and Hinge. Their concerns were initially rooted in the need for accountability among dating app companies.

Match Group, which owns a significant portion of the dating app landscape, indicated that it collaborated with law enforcement on 200 assault cases in 2019. However, the report lacked data on the number of complaints filed through their platforms. This omission raises further questions about the prevalence of abuse within the online dating sphere.

Research from Australia underscores this issue; a study by Dr. Christopher Dowling revealed that nearly one-third of respondents encountered violence during in-person meetings after connecting online. Particularly vulnerable populations, like LGB+ women and users with disabilities, faced heightened risks according to the findings.

Adding to the alarm, a ProPublica statistic from 2019 indicated that 31% of surveyed women reported experiences of sexual assault or rape from online dating encounters. In a recent informal survey conducted by the 12News I-Team, about a quarter of respondents admitted to facing violent encounters with individuals met on dating apps.

These alarming statistics drove the investigation into a case involving Helen Simmons, who alleged abuse and involvement in an armed robbery after meeting her assailant on Tinder. Despite the disturbing nature of this case, Tinder responded that they had no records of her contact with the accused.

Concerns extend to the lack of background checks within these platforms. While Tinder’s terms of service forbid felons from using their app, they do not conduct criminal background checks. This loophole allows potentially dangerous individuals to access dating services easily.

Kathryn Kosmides, who founded the online safety company Garbo, pointed out that dating apps can serve as hunting grounds for abusers seeking victims. Lawmakers echoed these concerns in their communication with Match Group, highlighting the importance of implementing comprehensive background checks.

Although Match Group stated they would run sex offender checks for users using credit cards, they admit limitations exist for free account holders. Outdated and incomplete public records further complicate these efforts, prompting calls for improved regulatory oversight.

Following a brief partnership with Garbo, which ultimately ended due to operational challenges, Match Group has initiated collaboration with a new background check service, BrightCheck. Despite this progress, the company has yet to release concrete data on abuse reports from their platforms.

Rep. Schakowsky emphasizes the urgency of the situation, urging for detailed reporting to understand the extent of violence linked to dating apps. Concerned with ongoing risks, she plans to reintroduce the Online Consumer Protection Act, which could impose penalties on platforms failing to protect users effectively.

As many individuals signal their unease about safety while dating, some are turning to self-defense training. In Tempe, instructors Keith Larkin and Michele Harrison share concerns about the rising risks associated with online dating, likening it to playing “Russian Roulette.” Their classes now include scenarios that reflect real-world threats individuals may face.

Ultimately, with insufficient data available, users must take personal safety into their own hands and remain vigilant as they navigate the complexities of online dating.