Hookup Apps Grindr and Blendr Slammed for Security Issues

Location-based dating apps Grindr and Blendr were slammed for failing to protect private accounts with software that was “poorly designed” with “no real security.” The apps allow users to seek out like-minded people for dating or socializing, sharing real-time locations and up-to-date profiles complete with pictures. However, research demonstrated that security flaws allowed users to take control of others’ profiles, sending pictures and messages on their behalf. Worse yet, it took the apps’ parent company a couple of weeks to make fixes even after the flaws were disclosed. Grindr and Blendr’s failure to protect their users led to calls for users to delete their accounts despite a public apology from the company’s founder and CEO.