Tinder is taking a new step forward in securing online dating. The dating app, which has 50 million users worldwide, has announced the expansion of its identity verification system to several European countries, including France. This system, already tested successfully in other markets, such as the United States, the United Kingdom and Mexico, will be fully operational by the end of summer 2025.
Strengthening security
The principle is simple, but effective: users wishing to verify their identity will have to provide a valid official document (ID card, passport or driver's license) and take a video selfie. Thanks to Using facial recognition technology (boosted with AI, of course), Tinder will compare the photo in the document with the face in the video selfie and at least one photo from the user's profile. This process will also confirm that the age indicated is correct and that the user is indeed an adult.
Several levels of security will be offered. To encourage this process, the company will offer specific badges depending on the level of verification carried out: it will be possible to attach a badge to a badge (camera, ID, or full blue checkmark) on your profile to reassure potential matches of your authenticity.
Avoid fake profiles and minors
This initiative aims to address a recurring problem on dating apps. Without verification, it's impossible to know if the person you're chatting with is the same as the one in their profile picture. The tool will also ensure that the user is indeed an adult. This approach could be part of the SREN law in France, and the mandatory verification of majority on platforms intended for adults. The measure could also deter malicious online behavior: by entering an identity document on the application, users will no longer be completely anonymous. It will be much easier to find them in the event of an offense or problematic behavior.
Security Concerns
While the option is already appealing on a practical level, it also raises some security questions. The refrain is the same as always: how can you trust a private company when it asks you to provide an identity document? The finding is all the more worrying when this official information is combined with data as sensitive as sexual preferences.
Although identity verification will remain optional, Tinder strongly encourages its members to activate it to ensure greater transparency. Initial feedback from the markets where the system has been launched is promising: in the United States and the United Kingdom, verified profiles have recorded up to 67% more matches than other users. A clear advantage over those who refuse to provide their identity documents.
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