By Dating apps will show singles Covid-19 vaccination status
Dating apps including Tinder, Hinge and Bumble have agreed a deal with the government that ministers hope will encourage users to register for the jab.
From Monday, companies will add features to their apps and websites so users can show support for the vaccine on their dating profiles, and offer in-app bonuses such as badges, stickers, and free “super likes” to those who say they are vaccinated.
The move comes as the government announced that the programme would open up to people in their twenties this month.
The scheme is entirely voluntary and not connected to any medical records or the NHS app, which means it is based on trust.
While dating sites and apps cater for all ages, they are predominantly used by younger people, the demographic for which ministers and officials fear vaccine take-up will be lowest, given the reduced chance of serious outcomes from coronavirus.
On Tinder, where users “swipe” pictures in the hope of acquiring a match, people will be able to add virtual stickers such as one saying “I’m vaccinated”, with those who sign up being handed a free “super like” to boost their profile.
Similar sticker and bonus schemes will operate on Match, OkCupid, Bumble, Plenty of Fish, Hinge and Badoo. Muzmatch will participate by having medical experts answering questions about vaccines on its social media.
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