In response to rising concerns about user safety and wellbeing on online dating platforms, Australia has introduced a new voluntary code for dating apps. This code, a collaborative effort between the government, industry stakeholders and advocacy groups, aims to enhance user safety, promote respectful interactions and prevent abuse and harassment.
The companies behind Tinder, Hinge, Bumble, Grindr, RSVP and eHarmony have adopted the code, developed after the 2023 roundtable on e-security. But the efficacy and scope of this voluntary code is subject to debate. Is it a case of too little, too late for many users?
My research, conducted in 2020, highlighted the toxicity and abusive conduct reported by the majority of women on dating apps, and many men (particularly those in vulnerable groups). My findings are corroborated by thousands of papers and articles worldwide. Dating apps have been around for 15 years – and it’s taken this length of time for a sophisticated response to the need to protect users.
The new voluntary code includes provisions designed to protect users and foster a safer online dating environment. Dating apps are encouraged to implement profile verification processes, in-app reporting mechanisms for abuse or harassment and options to block or mute other users.
These aim to minimise the number of fake profiles and ensure swift action against inappropriate behaviour. Platforms are urged to educate users about safe online dating. This includes providing resources on how to recognise and report suspicious behaviour, as well as promoting awareness about the risks.
This isn’t necessarily revolutionary – many dating apps have already implemented such safety features.
However, and this is perhaps the most significant feature, the code encourages dating app companies to cooperate with law enforcement in cases of serious misconduct or criminal activity. This involves sharing relevant data and providing support to investigations. My research indicated users would often report abusive, toxic, or unsafe behaviours and no action would be taken.
Ensuring the privacy and security of user data is another critical aspect of the code. Dating apps are expected to adopt stringent data protection measures, including encryption and secure storage practices. Users who breach the safety provisions will have their accounts terminated across all of the dating apps owned by that company.
Platforms are required to conduct regular audits of their safety practices and report their findings to authorities, in a scorecard like way.
While the code is a significant step forward, does it go far enough?
By involving industry stakeholders, there is a greater likelihood of buy-in and compliance. Similarly, the voluntary nature of the code enables dating apps to tailor safety measures to their specific platforms. This can encourage innovation and the development of new, effective features. It also serves as a foundation for potential future regulation.
But as a voluntary code there is no binding enforcement of compliance. This reliance on self-regulation may result in inconsistent application across different platforms, leaving users on some apps more vulnerable than others. The flexibility afforded to dating apps in how they implement the code can lead to variability in the effectiveness. Some platforms may adopt robust practices, while others may only make minimal changes, undermining the overall impact of the code.
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The blatant misogyny apparent on dating apps is both a platform issue and a societal one. Dating apps don’t operate in a vacuum – behaviour on dating apps reflects that of society, perhaps exacerbated by the anonymity of the digital landscape.
The rise of the alpha male culture, championed by the likes of Andrew Tate, has much to answer for. More comprehensive approaches to encouraging respectful behaviour and establishing clear consequences for misconduct should be integral.
Realistically, we don’t just need a dating app voluntary code, but a comprehensive societal approach.
The code is a commendable initiative. It represents a positive step towards addressing the growing concerns about abuse and harassment. But its voluntary nature and the lack of enforceable measures may limit its effectiveness and may lead users to think they’ve been robbed of a more robust response.
To truly safeguard users, a combination of industry self-regulation and potential legislative action may be necessary.