Tinder, Hinge and Other Dating Apps Encourage 'Compulsive' Use, Lawsuit Claims
A proposed class-action lawsuit claims that dating apps like Tinder and Hinge are designed with addictive features that promote compulsive use.
Lawsuit Alleges Addictive Features in Dating Apps
A lawsuit filed against Match Group on Valentine's Day claims that dating apps like Tinder and Hinge are intentionally designed with addictive features.
The proposed class-action lawsuit, filed in federal court in California, accuses Match Group of prioritizing profit over helping users find relationships.
According to the lawsuit, Match's dating platforms use game-like features that encourage "compulsive" use and prompt users to purchase expensive subscriptions.
Tech Companies Facing Scrutiny Over Addictive Features
This lawsuit comes at a time when tech companies are under increasing scrutiny for the addictive features in their platforms.
Meta Platforms, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, is also facing a lawsuit over features that allegedly contribute to the youth mental health crisis.
The lawsuit against Match Group claims that the company uses dopamine-manipulating product features to turn users into "gamblers" in search of psychological rewards.
Seeking Class Action Status
The lawsuit was filed by six dating app users and seeks class action status.
The plaintiffs claim that Match's business model depends on generating profit by monopolizing users' attention and creating addiction to their dating apps.
Representatives for Match Group have not yet responded to requests for comment.
