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The dating application Grindr has agreed to a settlement worth £26 million to resolve legal claims that it disclosed sensitive user data to external companies. The allegations center on the platform’s handling of private medical information, specifically users’ HIV status, which was reportedly shared with third parties without proper consent.
The controversy surrounding the app’s data practices dates back to 2018, when investigative journalism first exposed the issue. Following the public disclosure, Grindr pledged to cease the disputed data-sharing practices. However, a UK-based legal firm initiated formal action in 2024 on behalf of British users, claiming the company had violated national privacy regulations by sharing confidential information with vendors prior to 2020. The case expanded to include American users, with more than 11,000 individuals joining the claim by mid-2025.
In its official statement regarding the settlement, Grindr maintained that the disputed conduct occurred during a period when the platform was under Chinese ownership. The company emphasized that it does not admit wrongdoing while acknowledging the concerns raised by affected users. Since changing ownership and leadership approximately six years ago, Grindr stated it has implemented comprehensive improvements to its privacy framework.
Under the settlement agreement, the company will distribute £13 million to claimants before the end of 2026, with an additional £13 million payment scheduled for early 2027.
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Originally reported by Mashable →
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