Starting in March 2022, Tinder users will be able to run background checks on their dates. This feature will be available to users in the United States and Canada.
“We’re committed to making sure that our platform is safe for everyone,” said Tinder CEO Elie Seidman. “The inclusion of background checks is one more way we can make sure that our users are protected.”
To use the background check feature, Tinder users will need to provide their date’s full name and birthdate. Tinder will then run a check through public records. If there are any red flags, the user will be notified.
The background checks come from Tinder’s partnership with non-profit Garbo and will cost $2.50 USD per transaction plus fees, which will work to cover the fees of conducting background checks.
Let’s take a look at Tinder’s decision to implement this service and whether it will be helpful or detrimental to users in the long run.
Table of Contents
What is a Background Check?
A background check is an investigation of a person’s history. This can include criminal records, employment history, and education verification. Background checks are often used by employers to screen job candidates, but they can also be used for other purposes like renting an apartment. In this instance, they are becoming much more accessible to the average person since any Tinder user will be able to do one.
What are the Dangers of Online Dating?
Many, and women, in particular, are wary of the dangers that come with online dating. Other than the obvious minor inconveniences, such as catfishing, there are, of course, more dangerous risks. These can be assault, robbery, and worse. In fact, there has been an increase in these types of crimes in recent years.
The Pros of Tinder’s New Feature
There are several advantages to this new feature. First and foremost, it will make users feel safer. It will also give users peace of mind, knowing that their date doesn’t have any hidden skeletons in their closet. This could potentially save users from being scammed or worse.
Another pro is that it will likely increase Tinder’s user base. Many people are hesitant to use dating apps because they worry about meeting someone with a criminal background. With this new feature, more people will be willing to give Tinder a try.
In particular, women hesitant to try the app due to safety concerns will be more likely to give it a go. This is a big win for Tinder, as they have been trying to increase their female user base. A healthy female user base is one of the key factors in the success of a dating app.
The Cons of Tinder’s New Feature
However, there are also some drawbacks to consider. For one thing, the $2.50 fee could deter some users from running a background check. Additionally, the process of getting your date’s full name and birthdate could make some people uncomfortable. It might even dissuade them from using the app altogether.
Another con is that background checks are not foolproof. They can sometimes return false positives or negative results. This could lead to innocent people being unfairly judged.
The check can also create a false sense of security. Just because someone doesn’t have a criminal record doesn’t mean they are a good person. They could still be abusive or manipulative. They can also be dangerous. Or it could just be that they haven’t been caught yet.
Conversely, background checks in dating apps could cause discrimination. For example, someone with a minor drug charge from their youth could be unfairly judged and rejected, even though they are not a danger to anyone. It is also possible that this will bring about racial discrimination since certain communities are far more targeted by police than others.
So What’s the Verdict?
Tinder’s decision to add background checks is a step in the right direction. It will make users feel safer and give them peace of mind. However, it is not a perfect solution. There are some potential drawbacks that should be considered. Ultimately, it is up to each individual to decide whether or not the pros outweigh the cons.
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