Dating app safety shouldn't be left to women, researchers say
Women report screening profiles, withholding personal information and managing interactions to protect themselves as researchers push for stronger obligations on dating platforms.
A new Australian study reveals that almost all women surveyed have encountered harmful behavior on dating apps. Researchers argue that dating platforms should take more responsibility to prevent these systemic risks. The federal government is currently reviewing a proposed digital duty of care, which could hold online services accountable for identifying and mitigating risks.
The study found that 99% of heterosexual women experienced at least one harmful behavior, such as unsolicited explicit messages, love bombing, negging, gaslighting, and stalking. Women often take their own precautions to stay safe, including screening profiles for warning signs, withholding identifying information, and carefully managing interactions.
However, these measures are not enough, as most women fear that their complaints will not be taken seriously by platforms. Lead researcher Karen Tindall emphasized the need for greater efforts from platforms to prevent preventable risks, rather than relying on users to report harm after the fact.
Written by urgent.news from ABC News AU's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
