Social media has changed the way we communicate, share information, and even the way we date. Hundreds of millions of Americans use social media, and more than 40 million people use online dating apps or services. Unfortunately, sexual abuse and harassment can happen online and offline.

To ensure everyone can use online dating apps safely, RAINN’s president, Scott Berkowitz, has joined the advisory council for Match Group. Match Group owns Match.com, Tinder, and other dating platforms. Its advisory council brings together leading industry experts to maximize the safety of millions of users worldwide.

"I am honored to join the Match Group Advisory Council (MGAC) and am pleased that Match Group has taken this step to proactively address safety,” said Berkowitz. “RAINN has a long history of helping organizations examine their sexual violence policies and improve their education and response practices. We look forward to working with the MGAC to identify improvements, spread awareness, and help Match Group ensure the safety of its platforms for all users.”

Sexual abuse or harassment online is never the victim’s fault. An individual cannot always control what happens with the information posted about them online, so it’s helpful to keep in mind a few personal safety tips. RAINN has developed new Online Dating and Dating App Safety Tips to help ensure that individuals can feel as safe and secure as possible when making new connections through these services. Other helpful resources available are Using Technology to Hurt Others and Social Media Safety.