Mariya Peykova writes an article on online dating platforms and the law

29th January 2025

3PB ‘s specialist commercial, public and information law barrister Mariya PeykovaMariya PeykovaCall: 2013 has written an article titled ‘Online dating platforms and the law: can you afford to swipe right for love?’

A US court ruling has allowed a class action against Match Group, which owns dating apps like Tinder and Hinge, to proceed to arbitration. The lawsuit claims that these platforms are addictive and prioritise profit over users' relationship goals. Critics raise concerns about gamified features, opaque algorithms, and their negative impacts on mental health. In the UK, new laws are increasing pressure on dating services to be transparent about their data practices and to ensure fair treatment of users

Mariya concludes by arguing that consumerism has hijacked modern dating, and that online dating companies are data controllers under the UK GDPR, which can significantly impact users' quality of life. Given this, it is time for these companies to reconsider their practices or face the risk of potential legal or regulatory action.

To read Mariya’s full article please click here

To construct or instruct Mariya, please contact David Fielder via email, or telephone 020 7583 8055.