- New Jersey AG Matthew Platkin has reached a settlement with Bumble, Inc. to resolve allegations that the internet dating service provider misrepresented or failed to disclose its criminal background screening policies and practices in violation of New Jersey’s consumer protection and internet safety laws.
- The AG’s office claims that the settlement stems from an investigation prompted by rising concerns of sexual assault occurring over dating platforms. According to the AG’s office, the investigation found that despite Bumble’s terms and conditions stating the company does not conduct criminal background screenings, Bumble has, in fact, historically conducted screenings of certain users against state and national sex offender registries in response to sexual assaults reported by users or the press.
- Under the terms of the settlement, Bumble must pay $315,000 in civil penalties and legal fees. The company must also revise its disclosures to accurately reflect its criminal background screening practices and notify users of its revised disclosures via pop-up notifications or email. The disclosures must include specific information required under New Jersey law and be accessible to users through a clear and conspicuous hyperlink on any Bumble website or application page where users are asked to submit information about themselves. The company must also provide safety awareness notifications in compliance with New Jersey law regarding the limitations and potential loopholes of criminal background screening.