Grindr is a widely known gay dating platform. Launched in 2009, it is frequently confused with another popular dating app, Tinder. The app boasts millions of users from across the globe. The creation of Grindr sparked a massive change in the gay community, creating a space for gay and bisexual men to interact, connect and even find love, but not without risking their online privacy.
Since its creation, the internet dating culture has grown exponentially, but this growth comes with risks. Therefore, users must be aware of the dangers of using apps like Tinder and Grindr.
In this article, we discuss the risks of using Grindr and how to protect your privacy.
How to enhance Grindr privacy – Quick guide
What are the Grindr privacy risks?
Below are some privacy risks that Grindr unwittingly introduces:
1. Risk of exposing your health information
A flaw in the Grindr privacy protocol allows ill-intentioned individuals or strangers to access the health information of its users. Grindr typically shares sensitive and private data about its users, including health information. Grindr has been publicly shamed for sharing users’ HIV status with third parties, including user data and email addresses, without users’ consent.
The sharing of sensitive health data was not about the company’s health concerns, nor did the users consent to sharing such information outside the confines of the app. There is already a function where users can share their HIV statuses with other users within the app, and as far as the users know, that’s all there is.
Grindr has since made statements and taken action to ensure they halt all sales of user data to third parties. However, users are still advised to think long and hard before they entrust Grindr with sensitive information moving forward.
2. Your location is accessible to other users
Grindr constantly tracks locations for users to enjoy the full scope of Grindr’s services. The app matches you with other users in your location using Wi-Fi and GPS. This feature is good because it narrows down the people you get matched with to the ones closest to your physical location and reduces the distance constraint.
However, because the app can see your location and potential matches, strangers with bad intentions can also see it. Consequently, Grindr updated its app to allow users to disable their locations to reduce the risk of a stranger accessing their location. This decision was made after a study conducted by Synack Cybersecurity revealed how vulnerable the app was to data breaches.
However, this solution could have been more effective since the user data still made its way to the Grindr servers. As a result, the chances of the user’s location getting swiped were still a major possibility and concern because users used their Grindr logins for other non-Grindr websites.
Therefore, Grindr users should avoid using their logins on other websites for any reason, as Grindr cannot guarantee their data is secure outside of its applications.
3. Risk of using Grindr in locations with anti-gay laws
Since your exact location is always visible to all app users, there are numerous threats to your privacy. These dangers include living in areas where same-sex relationships are illegal. If you’re a gay or bisexual man using Grindr in these locations, you would be exposed to many risks.
In countries with anti-gay laws, government agencies can capitalize on the weak Grindr privacy protocols to track and arrest gay and bisexual men. In some other places, homophobic individuals create fake profiles on Grindr to expose the users, outing them as gay. As a result, many Grindr users face being shunned and disowned by families and even death.
At the same time, if Grindr were to address this situation by operating without user location data, it would go against the whole premise and leave users matching with people in different and distant places, creating an inconvenient and uncomfortable atmosphere.
4. Grindr has gone against the GDPR in the past
The GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) consists of laws that ensure that companies prioritize their users’ privacy. Grindr went against the GDPR in 2021 because of their notorious habit of sharing user data without their consent to third parties who may or may not have well-meaning intentions.
Grindr once again attempted to salvage this blow to its reputation and a possible hefty fine by changing how they ask users for specific privacy permissions when they use the app. But further inquiry will show that Grindr has still not abandoned the data sale.
As such, users are warned against sharing sensitive information on the app, especially the many permissions associated with its usage.
5. Grindr offers help to users
It’s not all bad news. However, Grindr has been making active and honest efforts to imbibe a change in how they offer their services. It strives to be more transparent and informs its users of every risk or necessary information they might face while using the app.
Which locations consider same-sex acts illegal?
In countries where homosexuality is criminalized or not widely accepted, Grindr may be at risk of being banned or restricted. 69 countries still consider homosexuality illegal, with some even enforcing the death penalty.
Here are some countries where Grindr users could be in danger due to anti-gay regulations:
| Country | The legality of same-sex relations |
|---|---|
| Egypt | Legal, officially. But there is still a risk of prosecution on other charges such as “debauchery.” |
| Indonesia | Legal in certain parts and illegal in others. |
| Iraq | Legal, but openly expressing your LGBT affiliation is risky. |
| Lebanon | Illegal for men and women. |
| Pakistan | Legal in certain parts and illegal in others. |
| North Korea | Legal. Largely because it is not considered a real occurrence in the country. |
| Russia | Legal in certain parts and illegal in others. |
| Singapore | Illegal for men and women. |
| Sri Lanka | Unclear whether it is legal or not. Best to be wary. |
| Saudi Arabia | Same-sex sexual activity is illegal in Saudi Arabia, and there are strict laws against homosexuality. The Saudi government has also been known to block websites and apps related to LGBTQ+ issues, and Grindr is reportedly banned in the country. |
| Nigeria | Same-sex sexual activity is illegal in Nigeria, and there are strict laws against homosexuality. LGBTQ+ individuals face significant discrimination and persecution. While it’s still accessible in the country, there have been attempts to ban Grindr. |
Real-world dangers of Grindr
The risks to user privacy that we have identified inadvertently translate to real-world dangers. As we already know, dating apps carry and share sensitive information, but the consequences are far worse than the invasion of privacy.
Grindr users in countries with strict laws against LGBT people face jail, disownment, harassment, the threat of injury, loss of livelihood, and, worst-case scenario, death. These situations may not be true for most Grindr users, but they are still real and pressing threats. Therefore, Grindr users must know the risks before using the app.
In addition, Grindr needs to take more steps to guard against abuses of user privacy and protection. Below are a couple of scenarios that can and have exposed Grindr users to real-world dangers and ways they can better manage them.
Using Grindr outside your country
It is not uncommon to use dating apps while on vacation. With millions of users worldwide, your chances of finding a date are as good as they have ever been. In addition, using Grindr in a foreign country allows you to connect with users outside your reach. While this is an excellent opportunity to meet new people, it is also uncharted territory, and you should exercise caution when using Grindr abroad.
It is easy to forget that just because your home country supports the LGBT community does not mean that other countries do. Hence, your vacation destination could be one of those countries, no matter how lovely. In normal circumstances, Grindr needs to adjust your location so that you can find other users and others can find you. However, if you end up in a country where homosexuality is illegal, you expose yourself and others to various risks.
In places like Barbados, India, Nigeria, Algeria, and Pakistan, same-sex acts and relationships are considered illegal by law. Therefore, you should exercise caution when visiting these places. However, these are only the countries where it is illegal to be gay or bisexual; the risks also exist in countries where homosexuality is not illegal.
Where there are no laws outlawing same-sex relationships, there are also no laws protecting them, which is a whole other realm of danger. In countries like Egypt or Russia, the government is notorious for beating and locking up scores of gay and bisexual men by using fake accounts to lure unsuspecting men looking for a kindred spirit on Grindr. In these nations, there are dodgy laws under which they can still prosecute homosexuality even though not clearly stated, which makes it all the more dangerous.
We recommend you extensively research your destination regarding the acceptance of homosexuality before traveling outside your home country. This article is an excellent place to start. At the same time, we recommend the ILGA’s (International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, and Intersex Association) yearly report on “state/country-sponsored” homophobia.
It is also essential to note that while you can research and choose countries with the lowest risk of state-sponsored homophobia, you are never entirely safe. If the government supports it, it does not necessarily follow that the citizens will.
Grindr and anonymous profiles
We recommend you do your best to stay as private as possible while using Grindr, but how much is “too private”?
Recent research has shown that most users now use the app anonymously. This issue may not seem scary until you realize that it can result in matching with profiles with no means of identification: no pictures, no location, and no bio.
On the surface, it could mean that the user values their privacy, but it can also have a nefarious meaning. Individuals who wish to cause harm to gay or bisexual men can use this loophole to create anonymous accounts and perpetrate evil acts while staying anonymous and evading punishment.
Users now face uncertainty when matched with an anonymous account. On the one hand, it could be a well-meaning user who is sick of Grindr privacy issues; on the other, it could be a homophobe lurking and hunting for victims.
However, it is necessary to note that even though numerous risks are associated with using the app, it continues to do more good than harm. Granted, Grindr receives negative attention, but it has taken genuine and positive steps to ensure that users enjoy the matching, meeting up, and dating experience almost 90% of the time.
If you are not convinced and need to take your privacy and safety into your own hands, we have a few suggestions you can implement to enjoy a safe and private app experience. We will go into detail, but you can ensure you inform family members or friends about your Grindr date and location.
How to stay protected on Grindr
Below are the recommended steps you can take when using the Grindr app, considering the risk.
1. Do not divulge personal information
This measure should go without saying, but users must limit the personal information they add to their profiles. These are the details you should avoid adding to prevent any privacy risks:
- Your full name
- Your phone number
- Your email address
- Your HIV status
The things you should do, however, are first, post a photo that does not appear on any other social media platform. This way, strangers can not reverse image search and trace your private data on other social media platforms you have accounts on.
If the user you are matched with wishes to take the conversation off the app and you want to keep your phone number hidden, we recommend using Google Voice. The Google Voice app ensures your number remains private while you use a secondary, secure number.
2. Toggle off the location feature
The “matching” function that Grindr and other dating apps boast of utilizes your device’s GPS location to match you with other users on the app using their GPS location. This feature is handy if your only intention is to connect and find dates, but some users can exploit this feature to cause you harm. They can ascertain your exact location, and this is a major risk.
For this reason, it is critical to keep your exact distance hidden. Below are the steps to follow if you wish to hide your distance:
- Open Grindr on your phone.
- Click on “Profile.”
- Navigate to the “Settings” icon in the upper right corner.
- Click on “Display Preferences.”
- Toggle off the “Show My Distance” option.
While this is a great way to keep your distance information hidden, it does not prevent you from displaying as a “Nearby” Grindr user and still puts you at some risk.
3. Spoof location apps
Since hiding your location is not enough to assure user safety, we recommend trying a fake location app. This measure will help “spoof” your location, fooling others into thinking you are a different location than your actual one.
Apps that can fake your location usually work with Grindr, but recently, this has become more difficult. Due to an update, spoof location apps do not affect the Grindr user location. To fully evade this new update, you can download a few apps.
4. Download emulators for your Android and iOS devices
Bluestacks is a good Android emulator that allows you to run Android apps on your PC, and it comes in handy in getting around Grindr’s app restrictions. For example, Grindr can help change your virtual location, keeping your actual location hidden.
Below are the steps to using Bluestacks on your computer:
- Download Bluestacks on your computer
- Log in to the Google Play store on the app
- Download the Grindr app
- Download a location spoof app like Fake GPS GO from the Play store
- Open the app and click “Enable Mock Locations” on the landing page
- Select Maps and pick any location you wish to use. And that’s it.
If you are not using an Android device and need the app to use with your iOS device, we recommend the iTools Fake GPS Location app. Here are the steps to using the app on your computer.
- Install iTools on your computer.
- Open the program and click “Free Trial.”
- Open the “Toolbox” tab.
- Open “Device Toolkits” and click on “Virtual Location.”
- Enter the new false location in the map’s text box and enter.
- When the “Fake location” icon appears on the map, select “Move Here” to set your iPhone to that location.
Spoofing your actual location to a fake location is still the most effective method to keep your location hidden on Grindr. However, please mention the app’s usage to potential dates, so they do not confuse it for catfishing.
5. Use a VPN
Consider using a virtual private network (VPN) to encrypt your internet traffic and hide your IP address. This will make it more difficult for anyone to track your online activities.
6. Use discretion with profile photos
Be careful about sharing profile photos that reveal your face or other identifying features.
Try using another app
If you are weary of Grindr privacy issues and want to try your hands on another app for gay and bisexual men, we have the right one for you.
1. SCRUFF
Grindr may be the pioneer, but other apps have done the same thing they set out to do. For example, another dating platform that gays and bisexuals can use without fear of privacy leaks or fear for their safety is SCRUFF.
This app goes one step further in ensuring the safety of its users by appointing “local ambassadors” that help users navigate new cities and destinations with ample information and safety tips.
We decided to test the app ourselves and were pleased with our findings. The local ambassadors were very helpful and thorough. The tips they offered were also sourced from ILGA by SCRUFF to give users much-needed information about their destinations.
2. Blued
Key features:
- Group conversation
- Go live
- Live broadcasting
- Verified profiles
Blued dating app has grown in popularity over the years. The app is available in over 193 countries worldwide and supports a variety of languages, such as Chinese, English, Thai, Japanese, Spanish, Indonesian, Portuguese, Vietnamese, and French.
The app first appeared to the public in 2012 and has since then been embraced by over 40 million individuals across the globe. Blued has a strong community that navigates the platform with ease due to the variety of languages.
An important Blued dating app feature is its advanced filters. You can limit who views your profile and select which information is availed to other users. In addition, you can also connect easily with others via video and voice messages.
The availability of social network-like features such as live broadcasting and group conversation has made the app a go-to platform for gay users. The interface is also quite friendly for a diverse community, making it an ideal avenue for persons looking for love and companionship.
3. Surge
Key features:
- One-time photo viewing
- Message only matched profiles
- Charity based
- Limited uploads to improve privacy
Being a relatively new platform in the market, Surge has become quite popular among gay men seeking romantic relationships. Today, it boasts more than 3.5 million users across the globe.
Commitment and transparency are some of the aspects that set Surge apart from its competitors. The owners ensure that users avail truthful information to improve transparency. Such aspects have contributed immensely to the app’s popularity.
The availability of different languages, including Japanese, Chinese, and Korean, have made it easier for users from the Asian region to connect with like-minded people.
Surge understands the impact of users on its success and has, therefore, always strived to meet their needs and address their grievances. The service aims at building an extensive network to reach out to as many users as possible across the world.
4. Zoosk
Key features:
- Accurate matching algorithm
- Effective search tool
- A quick sign up
- Alerts you when traveling to regions that criminalize LGBTQ+
Zoosk supports popular devices such as Android, iOS, and desktops. The platform also integrates with the Facebook community for greater reach.
You can also opt for a free version, but it’s limited to viewing partial profiles of other users. However, you can choose a paid plan to enjoy an array of advanced features.
Zooks aims to personalize the online dating experience by curating the app to fit users looking for romantic relationships. Furthermore, the app is cost-friendly; hence, you won’t strain your pockets.
5. Silver Single
Key features:
- Has a webcam
- Profile verification feature
- Unlimited profile picture updates
- Adult mode
- Chat options
Unlike other dating apps discussed in the article, Silver Single caters to persons over the age of 50 years. It’s an ideal place for individuals who have not found a companion in their prime years.
Silver Single’s interface is quite friendly and easy to navigate. You can browse through different profiles to find your match. The support team is also rigorous in flagging and removing fake profiles to ensure that users interact with real persons. The webcam and chat options help interact with other persons, thus increasing the likelihood of developing a bond.
Other tricks to use Grindr safely
There are other methods to use Grindr safely, including:
How to spot a fake profile?
Online dating apps are full of pseudo-accounts. When searching through Grindr, it’s safe to assume that most people use fake accounts. However, you can identify some fake profiles by doing the following:
- Ask the user to send more photos and videos of himself/herself. Ask them to use some code words to ascertain that they’re using a real profile.
- Confirm their social media accounts. The information used in their social media profiles should match the one provided on Grindr.
How to send a video message?
Choosing a person with whom you share interests and one with your preferred personality traits is quite important in dating. A video message can be a great way to kick-start the journey. Here’s how to go about it:
- Choose a profile you wish to send a video message
- Click the camera icon
- Record your intended message
- Click the send button
How to arrange a safe meet-up?
After you’ve shared text and video messages, it’s likely that your next move is to plan for a meet-up. However, this can be a risky affair and requires proper planning and precautions. These tips will help set up a safe meet-up:
- Choose an open and public space as opposed to indoors and private areas. This will give you an advantage in case the other party has ill intentions.
- Ensure your valuables, such as your wallet and phone, are in a safe place.
- Carry with you a pocket knife or pepper spray for security purposes.
- Inform your friend or family of your whereabouts in case something arises.
How do I keep my Grindr a secret?
If you’re looking to keep your Grindr use a secret, there are a few steps you can take:
- Use a separate device: Consider using a dedicated phone or tablet exclusively for Grindr. This can help you keep your activity separate from your personal life.
- Set a passcode: Set a passcode on your device to prevent others from accessing it without your permission.
- Adjust your notification settings: Turn off push notifications or customize them so they don’t reveal the name or content of the message.
- Be cautious about profile pictures: Consider using a profile picture that doesn’t reveal your face or use a picture that is not associated with your other social media accounts.
- Be mindful of your location: Be careful not to share your location or use the app in public places where you might be recognized.
- Be honest with yourself: If you’re concerned about keeping your Grindr use a secret, it may be a sign that you’re uncomfortable sharing this aspect of your life with others. Consider taking the time to reflect on why and whether you want to address it.
How to Stay Safe on Grindr
When using the internet, you risk exposing your data and other sensitive information to cybercriminals. That is why we recommend you to protect your privacy and security with robust encryption and ensure that you don’t leave your identifiable digital footprint behind.
One of the easiest way to do it is a virtual private network (VPN). It contains various security features to safeguard your data and keep you safe online.
Most VPNs listed in this article come with premium features such as a no-logs policy, which means the provider doesn’t collect or store your identifianble information. Furthermore, features such as encryption protocols ensure that your traffic travels through secure tunnels.
Other features such as automatic kill switch and malware blocking also add to your privacy. Therefore, the best way to stay safe when using Grindr is by using one of the VPNs discussed below:
Best VPNs for Grindr
1. NordVPN
Key features:
- 5,000+ servers in 59 countries
- Zero logs policy
- IKEv2/IPSec protocol
- AES 256-bit encryption
- DNS leak protection
- Double VPN protocol
- Static IP address
- Split tunneling
- Automatic kill switch
- 24/7 customer support
You can’t talk about premium VPNs without touching on NordVPN. Because of its top-notch features, the VPN falls in the same bracket as ExpressVPN.
One of its attractive features is the wide server network averaging over 5,000 servers in 59 countries worldwide. This makes it easy for you to choose locations needed to access geo-restricted content. It also ensures that your servers are fast and reliable.
NordVPN uses a no-logs policy to protect your data and browse it anonymously. As such, you don’t need to worry about being tracked by third parties.
NordVPN also provides various security protocols, including NordLynx, OpenVPN, and IKEv2/IPSec. These protocols are based on the WireGuard protocol, which adds to the VPN’s overall security.
The wide range of compatibility and the automatic kill switch are also supported by NordVPN. These features offer comprehensive protection against online threats.
2. ExpressVPN
Key features
- 3000 servers in 94 countries
- No logs policy
- AES 256-bit encryption
- DNS leak protection
- Split tunneling
- Automatic kill switch
- 24/7 customer support
- 30- day Money back guarantee
ExpressVPN is a leading VPN in the industry, having stood the test of time. It offers various features, such as strong encryption, to protect your sensitive data. The AES 256-bit encryption is considered one of the most secure protocols today.
Its variety of servers in over 94 countries makes the VPN ideal for unblocking geo-blocked content. You can choose from 3,000 servers in case you want to change location or one of the servers becomes slow.
A strict no-logs policy means that the provider doesn’t keep any data of your internet activity or connection logs. In addition, in the event that your connection drops, the VPN’s automatic kill switch disconnects you from the internet, thus protecting you from being exposed to ISPs and other third parties.
ExpressVPN has wide compatibility. This allows it to be used across multiple platforms, such as macOS, Linux, Android, routers, and Windows. In case you experience any issues configuring the VPN in any of the aforementioned devices, you can reach out to its customer support which is available 24/7 through email or live chat.
- A responsive customer support team available 24/7
- Excellent speeds for streaming and downloading
- An extensive server network for unblocking geo-restrictions
- Relatively expensive compared to competitors
3. Private Internet Access (PIA)
Key features
- Over 30,000 servers in 84 countries
- AES 256-bit encryption
- 100% open source
- Automatic kill switch
- Unlimited device protection
- Split tunneling
- IKEv2/IPsec protocol
- A strict no-logs policy
- WireGuard protocol
- 24/7 customer support
PIA is highly recommended for its affordability and exceptional performance. If you’re looking for an affordable VPN that provides an array of features for your privacy protection, then PIA is your best guess.
The VPN boasts top-notch features for its price. With its no-logs policy, you’re assured that ISPs, government agencies, and other third parties cannot get hold of your private information. Additionally, PIA has over 30,000 servers in 84 countries worldwide, providing you with a variety of server options to choose from.
What sets PIA apart from other cheap VPNs is its security features. For instance, with the split tunneling feature, you can choose to direct some of your traffic through a secure tunnel while leaving the rest on the default gateway.
PIA also offers a kill switch that automatically disconnects your internet connection if it detects a network drop. With this feature, you’re certain to remain anonymous and secure even with a lost connection.
Furthermore, the AES 256-bit standard encryption protocol comes in handy in improving your privacy and security. This type of encryption protocol is found in government agencies and the military, making it reliable for maximum data protection.
The fact that PIA is open source tells about its trustworthiness and reliability. Its code is openly available for public scrutiny. So, PIA is an excellent choice if you are searching for a affordable and high-performing VPN.
- A reliable customer support
- Unlimited number of device connections
- Blocks ads and malware
- Fast but could be faster
4. Surfshark
Key features:
- 3200+ servers in 100 countries
- No logs policy
- Clean web
- Unlimited device connection
- WireGuard, IKEv2, and OpenVPN protocols
- Ad and malware blocker
- Two-factor authentication
- 24/7 customer support
An enticing Surfshark feature is its unlimited simultaneous connections policy. This feature complements its wide compatibility across almost all devices.
For example, you can connect the VPN on your PC, smartphone, TV, tablet, laptop, and gaming console simultaneously without losing connection. This makes it an ideal choice for huge households or businesses.
The camouflage feature is quite useful for disguising your VPN connection as regular traffic. This is an obfuscation mode that tricks others into thinking you’re on a regular internet connection, yet you’re using a VPN.
IKEv2 and IPsec VPN protocols work hand-in-hand to boost your protection. On the one hand, the IKEv2 protocol establishes a secure connection between the servers and your device, while on the other hand, IPsec creates end-to-end security for your internet communication.
When used simultaneously, the two protocols establish a secure and fast connection that offers maximum protection against threats.
Furthermore, the CleanWeb feature protects you from ads, malware, and trackers. It works by blocking known ads and trackers before they reach your device. As such, webpages load faster, use minimal data, and don’t collect any identifiable information.
- Unlimited amount of device connection
- Supports ad and malware blocking
- A superior encryption protocol
- Slow speed on some servers
- Unblocks popular streaming websites
- Double VPN protocol provides double protections from online threats
- A reliable customer support
- Outdated desktop version
FAQs
Yes, Grindr does have an incognito mode called “Ghost Mode.” This feature allows you to browse the app without other users noticing you. That means you can explore potential matches or check out profiles without alerting anyone to your presence.
To turn on Ghost Mode in Grindr, tap on your profile picture to access your profile, then tap the gear icon to access your settings. Select “Ghost Mode” and switch it to the On position. Once enabled, you will appear offline to other users, and your profile will not be visible in their grids.
It’s critical to note that Ghost Mode does not guarantee complete anonymity or security. All it provides is some privacy. Grindr and its third-party partners may also track your activity on the app. Using caution and sound judgment when interacting with other users on the app is essential, regardless of whether you’re using Ghost Mode or not.
Besides its Android and iOS applications, Grindr recently introduced a web version of the platform. All you would need is to link your account using the mobile app, as you’d do on WhatsApp or Telegram. It’s as simple as that.
Furthermore, you can run the Grindr app through an Android emulator on your computer. Although this method may seem more convenient, it may not be as secure or reliable as using the app on a mobile device.
Yes. You can do so using the auto-locking feature by accessing your profile settings and toggling the button on ‘keep my phone awake.’
