Tinder
The panic button tool allows users in real danger to use their scheduled date times and location-tracking options to contact authorities in the event of an emergency.
Tinder has joined companies like Uber
Originally released September 2012, Tinder is owned in part by Match Group, which also owns other popular dating sites, including OkCupid, PlentyOfFish, and Match.com. Tinder is also owned by the holding company InterActiveCorp, or IAC
Match Group CEO Mandy Ginsberg said, "We've found cutting-edge technology in Noonlight that can deliver real-time emergency services - which doesn't exist on any other dating product."
"Meeting a new person can be an anxiety-inducing event for a myriad of reasons," pointed out Nick Droege, Noonlight co-founder, in a news release. "In working closely with Match Group brands, our goal is to make sure safety isn't one of those reasons."
Match Group plans to roll out the safety feature on its other dating services later this year.
At least on Tinder, the process involves a multi-step verification sequence.
First, should a user decide to initiate the panic button feature, Noonlight will send them a text and ask for a code. For whatever reason, if the user doesn't enter the code, Noonlight will call them for confirmation. Then, if the user confirms or doesn't pick up, Noonlight will alert authorities and provide their location.
Dating sites and apps have become a typical way to meet new people, with more than 40 million in the U.S. alone using dating services like Tinder.
Tragically, disturbing reports of violent attacks and murders have unfortunately occurred on dates scheduled using these dating services. One example involved a man, convicted late last year, who strangled a female backpacker.
Given these circumstances, deep concern for physical safety and well-being are inevitable and understandable.
Along with worry for safety, privacy concerns regarding how the app stores and shares location information are also unsurprising. With that in mind, while Noonlight does offer the option to track location, the safety app will not be sharing users' locations with Tinder.