Tinder Now Requires Face Scans for Users in the Netherlands

Tinder had made biometric face scans mandatory for all users in the Netherlands as of April 4th. The change, which was tested last year, aims to verify identities, reduce catfishing, and limit fake profiles on the dating app.

Users will need to complete a face scan to continue using the platform. Once verified, a blue check mark will appear next to their name. Tinder states that the scans will help estimate age, confirm profile photos, prevent fraud, and stop others from using someone’s identity.

The biometric data will be stored on servers in the United States for as long as the account remains active. It can be shared with third parties when needed to maintain the service or resolve issues. If a user deletes their account, the data should be removed within 30 days. However, privacy experts have raised concerns about the risks.

Privacy advocate Brenno de Winter noted that while the measure could help address fake profiles, most users do not read privacy policies and may not understand how their sensitive facial data will be handled. The Dutch Data Protection Authority (AP) warned that facial information cannot be changed like a password if leaked. A data breach could allow someone to track individuals across the internet using just a grainy photo, potentially revealing personal details such as address, salary, or search history.

#Tinder has updated its privacy policy to include these terms as a mandatory part of using the platform. Users who continue accessing the app after April 4, 2026, will be considered to have agreed to the changes, with the “opt out” approach being to delete one’s account or simply remove the app from their devices. The rollout in the Netherlands is part of broader efforts by Tinder to improve profile authenticity, coming off the back of earlier rollouts like those in the United Kingdom.