IBM Warns On Dating Apps, Tinder Says It's Safe

By Kamal Nayan - 12 Feb '15 00:52AM

Just when the Valentine's Day was around the corner, the Big Blue (read IBM) has issued a warning to users of dating apps.

In a recently published report, IBM has outlined the potential security risks associated with users running sex scheduling software on their smartphones and tablets.

According to the IBM report, out of total 41 dating apps considered, more than 60 percent contained vulnerabilities that could be exploited by an attacker.

IBM said, a number of exploitable flaws exist in the apps that could allow an attacker to perform operations such man-in-the-middle attacks, phishing and cross-site scripting. By exploiting those flaws, IBM suggests that an attacker could not only steal user credentials, but could also look into stored data and photos or remotely activate a devices camera and speaker, The Register noted.

"If a user has the ability to download apps from untrusted third party sites or even apps on traditional app stores, there is the potential for sensitive information such as the employee address book, phone numbers, geo location, and more to be at risk via these devices," IBM said in the report.

Tinder Says It's Safe From Warning

According to Tinder, it is safe from the warning on dating apps recently issued by IBM, according to USA Today.

"IBM tested IAC's dating apps - including Match, OkCupid, and Tinder - and they were not among the apps found to exhibit the cited vulnerabilities,"said Media company IAC/InterActive Corp, which owns some of the nation's most popular dating services, such as Tinder and Match, in a statement. "We are confident in the continuing security measures we take to make sure our products meet the highest security standards."