Grindr to allow users in anti-gay countries to change Grindr icon on their phones as security measure
Grindr is to implement additional security measures to help protect users of the dating app in anti-gay countries.
The tech giant has collaborated with global free speech organization Article 19 on the changes. They want to protect users in anti-gay countries in the Middle East and Africa.
These changes will include the ability for users to change the distinctive Grindr app icon on their phone. They will also be able to create a security password to open the app.
Jack Harrison-Quintana, Director of Grindr for Equality, said in a statement: “Ensuring the safety of our users worldwide is a top priority for Grindr.
“In addition to changes to our architecture, we have been working with regional activists to put out weekly, and at times of heightened scrutiny, daily notifications providing safety tips to avoid police entrapment as well as information about how to contact local LGBTQ resources.”
Thomas Hughes, Executive Director of ARTICLE 19 said: “This partnership is helping to keep LGBTQ people safe in countries where their sexuality puts them at risk of arrest, prison and even torture. Ultimately we want governments in these countries to stop their persecution of people based on their sexual identity, but these practical changes can help to reduce the impact of these repressive crackdowns.
“This is also a partnership that demonstrates how human rights groups and for profit businesses can work together to help mitigate human rights abuses.”
A gay man in Beirut, Lebanon, who wished to remain anonymous, reportedly says he welcomes the Grindr developments.
“I think it is a great idea, specially for people in Egypt, Iran and the Arab Gulf countries because they are threatened by police. For Lebanon, maybe it makes a difference for discreet gays and married men, but it won’t make much difference for out men like me.”
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5 Comments
quinn
November 29, 07:51Ugh Yes! A very welcome dev.!
Gad
November 29, 09:30A welcome development though there are applications that already exists which camouflages private apps.
If there a is a way to sift blackmailers,rent boys,urchins and all manner of criminals from gay apps,it will be more beneficial. I’m aware that its still members of the LGBTQ community that reveals these apps to “intruders”
Lorde
November 29, 10:31Oh my…..now they can think I have an innocent calculator
Malik
November 30, 03:03Brothers and sisters, I want to testify to the church of Jesus Christ and that of Queen Beyzus about the great and mighty wonders the Lord is doing through her servant, PP.
I read this post (by PP, I assume) and thought it safe to finally download Grindr. I have uninstalled Grindr because after the very first conversation I met someone special and I just might be on the edge of something real…
Pray for me church.
Canis VY Majoris
November 30, 07:11L O L