Dating apps are being pushed to do more to protect their users as studies show there has been a surge in dating app-facilitated sexual violence (DAFSV).
Perth local and dating app user Callum Baxter thinks the apps have a level of responsibility when it comes to protecting their users.
“I think there is a level of responsibility that dating apps should have, particularly when it comes to people interacting with potentially fake or dangerous profiles,” he said.
The 20 year old said at the moment dating apps often rely on “good faith” hoping its users are telling the truth, but this isn’t always the case.
According to the Australian Institute of Criminology three-quarters of dating app users were subjected to online DAFSV and one third was subjected to in-person DAFSV.
“DAFSV is a form of technology-facilitated sexual violence where perpetrators use platforms to access victims and perpetrate sexual harm,” the report said.
The AIC said their study showed dating app users subjected to DAFSV were most likely to report the incident to the dating platform.
“It’s very easy to report things that aren’t right on dating apps and I have done it before. Part of it is the the other person doesn’t know that you’ve reported something,” Mr Baxter said.
The Australian government has cracked down on dating apps to help protect Australians.
Dating app companies are now required to adopt a new industry code, this involves implementing systems which detect “incidents of online-enabled harm”.
This goal has been brought to life through Wesnet — the National Peak Body for specialist domestic and family violence services.
Mr Baxter said from his experience using dating apps the verified feature is a “safety improvement”.
“Like I said, there are people who cat-fish, there are people there who go on underage. There’s a lot of things that it improves, you know, the person is of age, and it’s also the real person you’re talking to. I think it’s definitely a good tool to have,” the 20 year old added.
“I think it’s definitely good to get verified. It’s very important. And obviously it’s not currently mandatory to verify, but I think it is a good idea.”
To become verified Tinder users need to provide poof of a valid ID such as a passport or drivers licence and photo verification.
“Everyone has a right to feel safe online and in their relationships. It’s great to see Tinder focusing not only on trust and safety but also on promoting healthy and respectful relationships, as well as supporting the critical work we do at Wesnet,” Karen Bentley CEO of Wesnet said.
“Verification helps verify that potential matches are real and can also act as a deterrent to those looking to misuse technology.”
Tinder’s communications Director in Australia Kirsty Dunn supports the push for authenticity.
“What better way to put your authentic self forward than by having a fully verified profile, complete with that blue tick!” she said.
Tinder’s in-app verification drive will also contribute $1 to Wesnet for every user who becomes verified between November 12 and December 6.
A maximum total of $20,000 will be donated by the App to support survivor’s of gender-based violence.