Grindr, a popular hookup app, has reached a significant settlement in the UK following allegations that it unlawfully shared sensitive user data, including HIV status, with advertisers. The California-based company has agreed to pay £26 million (about $48.6 million CAD) to approximately 12,000 claimants represented by London law firm Austen Hays. The lawsuit accuses Grindr of breaching UK privacy laws by sharing user data, such as HIV status, recent testing information, and PrEP usage, with third-party companies like Localytics and Apptimize for targeted advertising purposes.
Users voluntarily provide this sensitive information on their profiles, assuming it would only be accessible to other app users. Austen Hays emphasized the app’s significance within the 2SLGBTQ+ community, facilitating connections for individuals, and stressed the importance of upholding data privacy standards.
Eligible claimants who used the app’s free version between 2016 and 2020 may receive £2,167 (approximately $4,050 CAD) each as part of the settlement. Grindr clarified that the settlement does not imply an admission of guilt but acknowledges the concerns and loss of trust expressed by some UK users regarding the pre-2020 data sharing practices.
This legal action in the UK follows a previous fine imposed by Norway on Grindr for similar privacy breaches. Despite disputing the allegations, Grindr lost its appeal against Norway’s decision in 2024. The app, previously owned by Chinese company Beijing Kunlun Tech Co. Ltd., faced divestment demands from the US government due to data handling concerns, leading to its acquisition by San Vicente Acquisition LLC for $620 million US in 2020.
Grindr, established in 2009, boasts over 15 million monthly active users globally and reported $138 million US ($190 million CAD) in revenue for the second quarter of 2026, according to its latest investor report.