Tinder’s plan for criminal record checks raises fears of ‘lifelong punishment’

Critics argue the new integration could mimic notoriously faulty background checks without necessarily making dating apps safer

When Jerrel Gantt was released from prison after three years, he was handed a pamphlet about healthcare and nothing else. He began searching for employment, a deep source of anxiety for him, and secured housing through a ministry in New York City. He later enrolled in school part-time.

As he settled into life outside of prison and developed a support system, Gantt began going on dates with people he met on apps like Tinder.