There is a significant change on the cards for Tinder, with the wildly popular dating app confirming this morning that ID verification will be rolled out to all users across the globe.
No definite date has been outlined by Tinder, with it set to rollout over the coming quarters, after it was first piloted in Japan back in 2019.
Soon users, will need to verify that they are indeed over 18 years old in order to access the platform, with this feature set to become voluntary.
Part of the reason why this change will take so long to implement will be the necessary regulatory elements that have to be adhered to depending on where the app is accessed. In South Africa for example, PoPIA may require different interpretations and approval compared to Europe where GDPR is in use.
“Tinder will take into consideration expert recommendations, input from our members, what documents are most appropriate in each country, and local laws and regulations, as it determines how the feature will roll out. The product will begin as voluntary, except where mandated by law, and based on the inputs received will evolve to ensure an equitable, inclusive and privacy-friendly approach to ID Verification,” a blog post regarding the announcement notes.
“ID Verification is complex and nuanced, which is why we are taking a test-and-learn approach to the rollout. We know one of the most valuable things Tinder can do to make members feel safe is to give them more confidence that their matches are authentic and more control over who they interact with,” adds said Rory Kozoll, head of Trust & Safety Product at Tinder.
With technology companies and platform that utilise user data being scrutinised with increasing severity in recent years, it looks like Tinder’s changes are as much about the safety of those using the app, as it is about ensuring it does not get on the wrong side of regulators.
“Over the last two years, Tinder has rolled out more than 10 key Safety features demonstrating a deep investment in technology that reduces anonymity, increases accountability and helps members stay safe,” the blog post concludes.
