Some dating apps have reportedly leaked personal chats and other data of users. Cybernews researchers found that a bunch of apps—like BDSM People, CHICA, TRANSLOVE, PINK, and BRISH—left user photos wide open for anyone to access. That includes private pictures sent in chats.
How did this happen?
The problem comes down to poor security. These apps stored user images in Google Cloud Storage buckets that had no password protection. On top of that, sensitive data like API keys and database details were left exposed in the app’s code, making it easy for hackers to get in.
The result? Nearly 1.5 million images were leaked, including, Profile pictures, Private photos sent in chats, Profile verification images, Even photos that had been removed by moderators.
One of the worst-hit apps, BDSM People – Kinky Fetish Dating, exposed over 541,000 images, while CHICA – Selective Luxy Dating leaked around 133,000.
Because of this, nearly 1.5 million images leaked online, including:
–Profile pictures
–Private images from direct messages
–Profile verification photos–Even photos that were removed by moderators
The worst-hit app, BDSM People – Kinky Fetish Dating, leaked over 541,000 images, while CHICA – Selective Luxy Dating exposed around 133,000.
For many people, privacy is about more than just embarrassment—it’s about safety. Scammers could use leaked images for blackmail, and in countries where LGBTQ+ relationships are illegal, this kind of leak could be dangerous.
Even though usernames and emails weren’t leaked, cybercriminals can still track people down using reverse image searches and other tricks.
Who is responsible?
All these apps were created by M.A.D Mobile Apps Developers Limited. Cybernews reached out to them for a response, but they haven’t replied yet. The bigger problem? This isn’t a one-time mistake. Cybernews looked at 156,000 iOS apps and found that 71% leaked at least one sensitive detail, like passwords or encryption keys.
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