What in the World When a ‘dating safety’ app goes wrong
Sep 11, 2025
In this intriguing discussion, Jacqui Wakefield, BBC's global disinformation reporter, delves into the aftermath of the Tea Dating Advice app's disastrous data breach. She highlights the controversial intentions behind the app, initially designed to help women verify potential partners. However, the fallout exposed personal information and led to a wave of online misogyny. Wakefield also examines the delicate balance between creating safe spaces for women and the risks of public shaming in dating culture, providing insight into the app’s impact on trust and safety in digital dating.
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Safety Pitch Drove Viral Growth
- The Tea app promised safety by letting women screen men for dishonesty or criminal records.
- It became hugely popular despite controversy over being women-only and hosting gossip.
Publicizing Whisper Networks Changes Power Dynamics
- Anonymous online whistleblowing by women existed long before apps like T, but moving it public changed risks.
- Without verification or male access, allegations online become impossible for the accused to rebut.
Mass Leak Posted To 4chan
- A 4chan user leaked verification selfies and IDs and celebrated the exposure on misogynist forums.
- The leak included around 70,000 photos, IDs, addresses and verification images sent for sign-up.