Online dating app, Tinder is planning to make available to its users across the world, an ID verification service.
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Tinder hopes the tool would help tackle ‘catfishing—’ duping someone into a relationship by using false pictures or information.
The tool will make it possible for users to verify their identities by sending Tinder an official document, such as a driving licence or passport.
These users' profiles would then be marked as verified when using the dating platform.
Rory Kozoll, Head of Trust & Safety Product at Tinder said:
We know one of the most valuable things Tinder can do to make members feel safe is to give them more confidence that their matches are authentic and more control over who they interact with.
Optional
According to the company, the tool will initially be rolled out as an option for users to consider, unless required by law.
In 2019, Japan made it mandatory for users to verify their accounts on the dating app in a bid to stop people below the age of 18 from accessing the app.
Tinder said it would consult with experts to determine which forms of ID would be accepted in different countries.
Tracey Breeden is VP of Safety and Social Advocacy at Tinder parent company Match Group:
We know that in many parts of the world and within traditionally marginalised communities, people might have compelling reasons that they can’t or don’t want to share their real-world identity with an online platform.
Photo verification
Early this year, Tinder introduced a Photo Verification feature, which verified that users looked like the photos they uploaded.
The feature uses an algorithm and human assistance to prompt users to take selfies in real-time.
Once users have successfully completed the procedure, then their profiles will receive a blue tick affirming their looks are verified.
The app also now has a panic button in case users need to alert the authorities while on a date.
