Coronavirus pushes dating apps to warn users
Posted March 9, 2020 8:06 pm.
Last Updated March 9, 2020 8:10 pm.
VANCOUVER (NEWS 1130) — Increased awareness around the COVID-19 virus is inciting dating apps to inform their users on how they can avoid being infected while meeting others.
While hookup app Tinder declined to comment to CityNews, a notification popped up on some users’ screen detailing some advice to prevent transmission of the virus.
“Your wellbeing is our #1 priority,” the notification read, along with an advisory for users to wash their hands, avoid touching their faces and use hand sanitizer when out on dates.
It may be safe through a screen, but once you meet in person it’s a different story. #Tinder is issuing a warning in light of #COVIDー19. Full story: @CityNewsVAN @NEWS1130 @BT_Vancouver pic.twitter.com/jfGSZ3zWqq
— Ashley Grace Burr (@AshleyBurr_) March 10, 2020
Another app, Hinge, recently posted a photo on Instagram with the caption “Washing your hands is hot. Wash your hands. Be hot.” Neither Hinge nor Tinder would comment on whether they’ve seen a change in the apps’ usage since the COVID-19 outbreak began.
Paddi Rice, who owns Executive Search Dating in Vancouver, says he hasn’t seen a change in patterns on the service.
“Relationships are never more important than in times like these, where there’s challenges in life,” Rice said.
“Do you really want to be facing these things alone?”
