Match Reaches $14 Million Settlement with FTC for False Advertising and Deceptive Practices

In 2019, the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) initiated legal proceedings against Match Group, the parent company of Match.com, claiming that it misled users into purchasing subscriptions through deceptive means.

After a six-year legal battle, the company, known for popular dating apps such as Match, Tinder, OkCupid, Hinge, and Plenty of Fish, has come to a settlement of $14 million, as recently announced by the FTC.

The FTC stated that the $14 million will be used to provide “redress to harmed consumers.”

The lawsuit asserted that users were exposed to potential scams, as the company sent promotional emails about new messages from senders identified as likely bots or scammers, misleading users into purchasing subscriptions while knowingly profiting from such tactics.

Furthermore, Match Group was accused of restricting users’ access to their accounts when they attempted to dispute charges, as well as keeping their funds without delivering the promised services. Reports indicate that the company also made it difficult for users to cancel their subscriptions.

Along with the $14 million settlement, the proposed order requires Match Group to take specific actions to address the issues.

For instance, the company must clearly define the terms of the six-month guarantee and avoid punitive measures against customers who voice billing concerns. They are also mandated to offer clear methods for users to cancel their subscriptions.

This settlement comes amidst ongoing scrutiny of the company’s handling of trust and safety matters, with the hope that the proposed order will improve the user experience.