QuackQuack: 57% of Indian Women Use Protective Dating Strategies

A recent consumer survey by Indian dating app QuackQuack has found that 57% of female users are employing deliberate, protective techniques to navigate online dating more effectively. The study, conducted among 9,685 active female daters aged 20–35 across metros, suburbs, and rural areas, indicates a shift away from high-volume swiping toward more curated, emotionally conscious approaches.

Conducted among women from diverse professional backgrounds – including IT, healthcare, finance, education, and entrepreneurship – the survey highlights three prominent trends: the rise of the “female gaze,” “soft launching,” and “profile shielding.” These strategies reflect growing emphasis on compatibility, emotional safety, and intentionality rather than rapid matching or validation-seeking.

The “female gaze” prioritizes emotional maturity and intelligence over physical appearance. According to the findings, 87% of respondents said they assess profiles based on perceived depth and authenticity rather than polished visuals. Nearly half (48%) expressed preference for relaxed, candid photos and bios that hint at real-life experiences, sparking curiosity instead of demanding attention.

“Soft launching” involves gradual, subtle introductions of partners on social media—such as blurred photos or vague references—before public announcements. Among women aged 25–35, 36% reported using this method to protect emotional boundaries, test compatibility privately, and avoid premature external judgments.

“Profile shielding” emerged as a key self-protection tactic, with 41% of respondents adding intentional layers to their profiles—such as explicit deal-breakers, clear intent statements, and limited personal disclosure. Four in five women said these measures help prevent mismatched expectations, unwanted advances, and emotional exhaustion from incompatible interactions.

QuackQuack Founder and CEO Ravi Mittal commented: “As a dating app, we have several safety checks in place to protect our users, but protecting their feelings or from getting their hearts broken is another thing. This new self-protective dating style among women reflects emotional maturity. Women are not dating to fill a void or meet their checklist. They are dating with the intention of finding peace in love, understanding themselves better, and making room for meaningful connections. Their strategies are more conscious than cautious.