How to spot fake profiles on Tinder, Bumble, Hinge, other online dating platforms

When Tinder launched as one of the first online dating apps, it introduced the concept of ‘swiping right’ to find a suitable match with just a tap on the phone's screen. Anyone could decide whether they like someone based on a profile and demonstrate their interest by swiping right on it. As other apps, including Bumble and Hinge, began to emerge, they allowed users to approach potential matches differently. However, the baseline never changed, still requiring users to swipe right on a profile if they liked it. Eventually, online dating became more complex, especially after fake profiles increased on these platforms.

Research by Juleo in partnership with YouGov revealed that roughly 78 per cent of female users on online dating apps come across fake profiles. Leading platforms like Tinder, Bumble, and Hinge implement strict measures against users with fake profiles, yet reports indicate that profiles lacking authentic identities are increasingly prevalent. Thus, learning how to spot fake profiles on Tinder, Bumble, and Hinge is advisable. Here are a few tricks for users.

Users who invite to a different mode of communication

If a user encounters a profile, the owner of which invites them to a different chatting app or mode of communication, it is likely the profile is fake. While the intent of the profile owner may be unclear, the owner may be trying to scam the user by trying to obtain personal information, such as phone numbers, addresses, or payment details.

Users with blank profiles

While all online dating apps have guidelines on how users should spot a genuine profile, they must be vigilant when coming across a profile without a display picture or necessary details. Genuine profiles that the dating app has verified carry a verified badge, making it easier for users to stay away from fake profiles.

Users who seek financial help

It is advisable to avoid profiles that demand financial help or money as they may belong to scammers looking to swindle.

Users who make and cancel plans

Profile owners that tend to cancel meeting plans because of some reason should also be avoided. One of the biggest flags users should keep in mind is that these profile owners are the first to make plans and then cancel them, so it is recommended not to engage with such profiles.