Tinder scores 3/5 for encryption, 2/5 for privacy, and 2/5 for track record. Overall safety score: 3/5.

What are the privacy concerns with Tinder?

Tinder security review covering location tracking, data collection, and safety features for online dating.

Has Tinder been hacked before?

See our detailed analysis of Tinder's past security incidents and track record at The Opt-Out Project.

Is Tinder Safe? Security Review

Name: Is Tinder Safe? Security Review
Item: Tinder
Rating: 3
Author: The Opt-Out Project

Category: Dating Company: Match Group, Inc. Reviewed February 10, 2026

3/5

Overall Safety Score

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Verdict: Tinder has improved safety features over the years but still collects extensive personal and behavioral data. Location tracking and the nature of dating apps create inherent risks that users must actively manage.

Tinder is the world's most popular dating app with over 75 million monthly active users. Its location-based matching and photo-centric design create unique privacy and safety challenges inherent to dating platforms.

Security Ratings Breakdown

Category	Score	Rating
Encryption	3/5
Privacy	2/5
Track Record	2/5

Security Features

Photo verification to reduce catfishing
ID verification available
Block and report features
Safety Center with resources
Noonlight emergency integration in the US
Hidden profile option for controlling visibility

Privacy Concerns

Precise location data collected (approximate distance shown to matches)
Extensive behavioral data: swiping patterns, conversation analysis, usage times
Photos and personal details exposed to strangers by design
Data shared across Match Group properties
2019 investigation revealed Tinder shares intimate user data with advertising partners

Past Security Incidents

2020 over 70,000 user photos scraped and shared on a cybercrime forum
2018 security flaw allowed attackers on the same network to see swipe activity and photo matches
Multiple documented cases of stalking enabled by approximate location features
2022 Google Project Zero found vulnerabilities in Match Group apps

How to Stay Safe Using Tinder

Don't share your last name, workplace, or address in your profile
Use the photo verification feature
Meet first dates in public places
Use Tinder's video call feature before meeting
Share date plans with a trusted friend
Review privacy settings and limit data sharing

Safer Alternatives

Bumble (women initiate, additional safety features)
Hinge (designed for relationships, less casual)

Last updated: February 10, 2026