New Study Looks At The Data Different Dating Apps Want From Users
Recent research has found that dating apps could be asking users to hand over more data than they realise.
We’ve all been there – you sign up to an app and before it lets you in, it asks you to accept the terms and conditions and access permissions.
However, recent research by DatingSitesReviews.com has found that dating apps could be making you share more information than you think.
The independent observer of the Australian online dating industry looked at thirteen of the top dating platforms in Australia to find out what information they access.
Looking at companies such as eHarmony, Elite Singles, LOVOO and Match.com, the study found that all thirteen of those studied asked for access to photos, media and other data.
85% asked for access to a user’s camera and microphone functions, with a further 80% of platforms collecting location data.
Almost a quarter of the platforms, 23%, asked for Bluetooth access, and 15% of the dating companies studied required access to SMS contacts.
Dirk Pflitsch of Datingsitesreviews.com.au gave one example of how sharing this data could potentially be dangerous: “One scenario would be that unauthorised SMS orders are being made via your smartphone.
“And then you have, for example, a year’s subscription for special cat food that you haven’t ordered.”
The researchers said, in general, more “traditional” dating platforms tend to ask for fewer permissions, saying: “We cannot entirely say just how liberal dating apps are with these permissions.
“It has been noted, however, that those from traditional matchmaking sites like Elite Singles are often far less invasive in comparison to those offered for “free” i.e., Badoo or Tinder.
“This list is of course only a current snapshot of dating apps at the moment (09/2016). As new updates come, these apps may either remove or add such access permissions.
“Whatever measures you may want to use in order to keep yourself and your data safe are explained in our online dating advice.”
This study follows February’s Flexera investigation into the risks of online dating apps in the USA which are used on company iOS devices.
To read the full study by Datingsitesreviews.com.au please click here.
