[co-author: Stephanie Kozol]*

New Jersey Attorney General (AG) Matthew J. Platkin and the Division of Consumer Affairs (Division) took action against the popular dating app company, Bumble, Inc., for alleged violations of the state’s consumer protection and internet dating safety laws.

In a settlement announced on February 21, Bumble agreed to pay $315,000 and make significant changes to its business practices. This follows an investigation by the AG, which found that the company misrepresented or failed to disclose its policies around criminal background screening of users.

The investigation revealed that while Bumble and its sister brand, Badoo, have screened at least some users against sex offender registries in response to reported incidents, the companies did not comprehensively conduct criminal background checks in violation of the New Jersey Consumer Fraud Act (CFA), the Internet Dating Safety Act (IDSA), and Division regulations related to internet dating services.

Under the terms of the settlement, within 45 days, Bumble must update the disclosures on its Bumble and Badoo dating platforms to accurately describe its criminal background screening practices in compliance with the IDSA and related regulations. This includes:

• Clearly stating the methods used for screening;
• Whether screening information is updated and how frequently;
• Whether users identified as convicted criminals are allowed access to communicate with New Jersey members;
• What specific crimes would disqualify users from accessing New Jersey members; and
• Mandatory safety notifications regarding the limitations of background checks, such as that they are not foolproof, may be circumvented by criminals, do not cover all states/countries, and only include public convictions.

Why It Matters

This settlement serves as a reminder that companies providing online dating services to New Jersey residents must be fully transparent about their safety practices, including criminal background checks. Now is a good time for companies that operate apps, websites, or related services that are subject to New Jersey law, or could potentially reach New Jersey users, to review their platforms and marketing materials to ensure full compliance with IDSA and state regulations. Accurately representing safety policies and the scope of any background checking efforts is essential to avoid costly violations and settlements.

*Senior Government Relations Manager