In a bid to take extra caution protecting LGBT users, the dating app Tinder says it will be introducing a new feature that will warn them when they’re in a region where homosexuality is illegal. This comes as there’s been a rise in blackmailers in repressive countries targeting gay men and women to entrap them.
When LGBT users automatically log in they will no longer appear as visible in the area on the app. Once the alert is activated, the user will have the option to remain hidden while in the location or they will be allowed to opt for making their profile public so that they can connect with new people. The alert will show once one has stepped into an anti-gay country or if they are using Tinder’s Passport feature to connect and match with people in those locations.
“We fundamentally believe that everyone should be able to love who they want to love – and we strive to reflect this in everything we do at Tinder,” said CEO Eli Seidman in a media release.
“It is unthinkable that, in 2019, there are still countries with legislation in place that deprives people of this basic right. We serve all communities – no matter their gender identity or sexual orientation – and we are proud to offer features that help keep them safe. This alert is an example of the many steps that we are taking to protect our users around the world”.
Tinder worked in association with ILGA World to establish new information to Tinder’s Safety Tips to include relevant information about the update.
“We hope this development will raise awareness amongst all Tinder users, and help protect people of diverse sexual orientation in the 69 countries around the world that currently still criminalise same-sex love,” commented André du Plessis, executive director of ILGA World.
“We work hard to change practices, laws, and attitudes that put LGBTQ people at risk – including the use of dating apps to target our community – but in the meantime, the safety of our communities also depends on supporting their digital safety”.
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