Finding the person of your dreams can be challenging. Internet dating services are in business to help make
love connections. Sometimes ideal pairings are formed; other times, mismatches provide humorous stories
for future telling. However, there are instances when clients are harassed, stalked, robbed, scammed, sexually
assaulted, or have personal information compromised. Can dating services be held liable for traumatic
encounters (in addition to the harassers, stalkers, scammers, etc.)?
These cases can be tricky. The Communications Decency Act of 1996 frequently shields internet dating
platforms from liability if someone you meet through their platform causes you physical or emotional harm.
But there are circumstances for which an internet dating service could be held liable, including:
- Failure to warn: The dating service has a duty to warn clients when they have knowledge of dangers, threats, or inappropriate or abusive behaviors directed toward users.
- Breach of contract: If a dating service promises background screenings, bans on site offenders, etc., and doesn’t deliver, they may be on the hook for damages.
- Defamation: Someone posts false and damaging statements about you on a dating app; you inform the dating service; the dating service fails to remove them — the dating service could be held liable.
- Identity theft and misuse of data: When an online dating service fails to secure your personal data, or shares your personal information without your permission, it may open the door to a personal injury claim.
A personal injury claim against an online dating platform can be a complex undertaking. Contact our firm for skilled and thoughtful representation.
