Tinder in Colombia has issued a warning to its users about an increase in criminals using the app to drug and rob victims, prompting the app to advise users to be cautious when meeting potential matches.
According to an in-app message, users were advised to vet their matches, meet in public places, and share their plans with trusted people.
A spokesperson for Match Group, the parent company of Tinder, confirmed the message and stated that Tinder has been in contact with local officials regarding the crimes involving foreigners, offering support and information when requested.
Previously, the US Embassy in Bogota cautioned Americans about the risks of using online dating apps in Colombia due to a surge in criminal activity where foreigners were targeted and later assaulted and robbed.
There were eight US citizen deaths in Medellin between November 1 and December 31 last year, with the embassy reporting suspected drug overdoses and homicides as causes. The embassy also noted an increase in incidents involving online dating apps being used to lure victims for robbery and the underreporting of these crimes due to victims’ embarrassment.
The US Department of State has a level-three travel advisory on Colombia due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, and kidnapping, prompting citizens to reconsider travel to the region.
Following the pandemic, Medellin received over 1.4 million foreign visitors in 2022, exceeding Cartagena for the first time and prompting the city mayor to warn against practices related to drug use and sex exploitation.
Tinder’s advice to its users in Colombia is to “follow your instincts” when using the app, given the heightened risks associated with online dating in the region. – Bloomberg
