Tinder Implements Stricter Measures to Combat AI Scams and Dating Crimes; Passport and Video ID Checks Introduced
Tinder is introducing an enhanced identity verification program in response to the increasing difficulty in distinguishing real users from AI-generated profiles and the rise in criminal activity on dating apps. The popular dating platform will be implementing the system in the US, UK, Brazil, and Mexico in the upcoming weeks and months, following successful testing in Australia and New Zealand. According to a statement released by the company on Tuesday, verified users in these regions experienced a 67% increase in matches compared to unverified users.
The process requires a valid driver’s license or passport and a self-recorded video. A third-party editor checks the date of birth and whether the face in the video selfie matches the person’s profile picture and ID. Once the user has submitted the information, it usually takes about one to two minutes to receive approval. If they fill in ID and photo verification, a blue check mark will appear on their profile.
“Some of the things we’re seeing with Gen Z is a really deep need and desire for that authenticity,” said Tinder CEO Faye Iosotaluno. Growing up in a “digital-first” era creates a sense of wanting to know if the person they see on social media platforms is really the person they’re getting, she said. “A key focus for us is how we help bring people’s authentic selves to the fore in their profiles and experience.”
A unit of Match Group Inc., Tinder has been developing its ID system for years, first rolling it out in Japan in 2019. The company is gradually adding new countries to the list, but implementing identification tools is complex and complicated. Recent developments have made technology even more important.
The U.S. Embassy in Colombia warned travelers in January that over the past year there has been an increase in reports of criminals using online dating apps to lure victims who then drug and rob them. Tinder informed its users in Colombia: “Remember to check your matches, meet in public places and share plans with people you trust. If something feels off, you can end the date.”
Last September, Australia ordered dating apps to develop a voluntary code of conduct addressing safety concerns after a study by the Australian Institute of Criminology revealed 72% of participants had experienced sexual violence facilitated by a dating app.
Although romance scams have a long and dark history, modern technology has brought a new dimension. As in many other industries, artificial intelligence has become a real concern in the dating world as well. In a scheme known as pig slaughtering, scammers use AI-generated images to develop unique dating profiles and trick people into handing over their money. According to the US Federal Trade Commission, in 2022 alone, romance scams cost victims $1.3 billion.
Match has prioritized attracting Gen Z and female users to maintain a healthy ecosystem within the app. The Dallas-based company has launched flashy subway and social media ad campaigns in an effort to reinvent itself and move beyond “just a hookup app” to one where people can make real connections. The company also wants to make sure that these connections are secure.
“People want to feel safe and confident when connecting and communicating with their matches, and we applaud Tinder for giving users this extra option to help ensure their match is the person on their profile,” said Pamela Zaballa, director of NO MORE managing director. who fights to end sexual violence in a statement issued by Match.
