Tinder is introducing background checks

The dating app is on a mission to prove that the platform is safe for its users

Later this year, Tinder will be allowing users to view public records of prospective matches using their name or phone number.

At first this new feature will only be available in the US but Match Group, Tinder's parent company, has said it plans to roll out the feature across to all its regions and other platforms at a later date. Match Group own Tinder, PlentyOfFish, OkCupid and Hinge.

"We recognise corporations can play a key role in helping remove those barriers with technology and true collaboration rooted in action," explained Tracey Breeden, Match Group's Head of Safety and Social Advocacy. The timing is unsurprising, as safety for women in the digital dating sphere has come under scrutiny.

Match have partnered with Garbo, a female founded background checking platform, to provide the paid service. Garbo collects "public records and reports of violence or abuse, including arrests, convictions, restraining orders, harassment, and other violent crimes" to create its reports.

The checks do not include any drug charges or traffic violation, "The research continues to show that there is no link between drug possession and gender-based violence." a spokesperson from Garbo explained in a statement on their blog in February.

A 2019 investigation by ProPublica had found registered sex offenders on many of Match Group's free platforms, including Tinder. Following this, 11 members of Congress sent a letter to Match Group "Dating platforms, like those owned by Match Group, must be doing everything in their power to ensure the safety of their users."

In January 2020, Tinder added a 'panic button' feature that would release information to emergency services about a date including location, when the button was pressed. Tinder's biggest competitor continues to be Bumble who have been heralded for their female friendly approach. On Bumble women need to make the first move on the platform in order to start conversations and the female-first platform also introduced an in-app video feature in order to prove the user is genuine.