In a bid to prioritize user safety in the realm of online dating, Tinder, the world’s leading platform for meeting new people, has unveiled its Dating Safety Guide in multiple Southeast Asian countries. This comprehensive resource is tailored for young singles in Thailand, Singapore, and Vietnam, offering region-specific advice and insights.
Originally launched in Australia last year in partnership with WESNET, an Australian non-government organization (NGO), the guide has now been adapted and expanded for the Southeast Asian market. It has also been introduced in other Asian countries like Japan and India through collaborations with local organizations.
Safety concerns loom large in the minds of young singles navigating the online dating landscape. According to a recent Tinder survey, 80% of young people in Southeast Asia consider safety features on dating apps to be crucial. However, only 30% of respondents are aware of and have utilized these features extensively, with an additional 18% unsure about their availability.
Tinder’s Dating Safety Guide is a comprehensive resource covering various aspects of safe online dating. It not only reiterates Tinder’s House Rules and Community Guidelines but also offers detailed explanations of in-app safety features and provides tips for a secure dating experience, from initial online interactions to real-life meetings. The guide also addresses issues like harassment and outlines the reporting process, accompanied by a list of local organizations for additional support.
To coincide with the launch, starting from March 6th, users will encounter in-app display cards facilitating easy access to the guide.
This initiative is part of Tinder’s ongoing efforts to educate and empower young adults in Southeast Asia to navigate online dating safely. Previously, Tinder initiated public awareness campaigns to combat romance scams in the region, and collaborated with actor Jonathan Bennett on World Romance Scam Prevention Day to raise awareness about online financial scams and toxic behaviors. Additionally, Tinder piloted School of Swipe, an online companion guide to online dating in Southeast Asia.
Over the years, Tinder has heavily invested in Trust & Safety (T&S) product development, introducing 20 innovative features aimed at enhancing user safety. These include advanced AI functionalities like “Are You Sure?” and “Does This Bother You?”, along with features like Block Contacts and Photo Verification.