Tea Dating App Suspends Messaging Due to Security Breach Exposing User Data

The women’s dating safety app Tea has suspended messaging services after a cyberattack revealed sensitive user data, including personal images and direct messages. The hack, which was first reported in late July, compromised a range of user content, with thousands of images, posts, and conversations exposed. The company confirmed that direct messages (DMs) were accessed as part of the breach, which could include personal and sensitive topics such as abortions and infidelity. Tea, which helps women perform background checks on potential partners, has 1.6 million users, and those affected have been offered free identity protection services. The app, which has recently surged in popularity, has faced criticism for its controversial features like sharing information about men’s behavior, which some argue could lead to blackmail or emotional harm. Tea has assured users that it is working on enhancing security and that those who joined before February 2024 are most at risk. Cybersecurity experts have urged users to accept the identity protection services offered by Tea, which may include fraud alerts and identity theft insurance.