Major Data Breach Hits Women’s Dating Safety App Tea, Exposing Thousands of User Photos and IDs

In a significant blow to user privacy, the popular women’s dating safety app Tea has suffered a massive data breach, resulting in the leak of approximately 72,000 user images, including sensitive verification selfies and government-issued IDs. The breach, first reported in late July 2025, has raised serious concerns about the security of personal data on dating platforms designed to prioritize user safety.

According to multiple sources, hackers accessed Tea’s database and extracted sensitive user information, including over 13,000 user profiles and an estimated 72,000 photos. These images, which include selfies and identification documents, were subsequently posted to the controversial online forum 4chan by an anonymous user. The leaked data reportedly includes profile details such as names, ages, and other personal identifiers, amplifying the risk of identity theft and online harassment for affected users.

The breach was initially uncovered when a 4chan user claimed responsibility for exploiting vulnerabilities in Tea’s security infrastructure. The hacker’s actions were described as a deliberate attempt to expose weaknesses in the app, which markets itself as a safe space for women in online dating. Tea’s verification process, which requires users to submit selfies and IDs to confirm their identity, was intended to enhance trust and safety but has now become a liability for thousands of users.

Security experts have criticized Tea for inadequate safeguards, noting that the breach highlights ongoing challenges in protecting sensitive user data within the tech industry. The incident has sparked a broader conversation about the responsibility of dating apps to secure personal information, particularly for platforms catering to vulnerable groups. Users of Tea have expressed outrage and fear, with many calling for greater transparency and accountability from the app’s developers.

Tea has yet to issue a detailed public statement, but reports indicate the company is investigating the breach and working to mitigate its impact. Affected users have been advised to monitor their accounts for suspicious activity and take steps to protect their personal information, such as updating passwords and enabling two-factor authentication on other platforms.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with sharing personal data online, even on platforms designed with safety in mind. As the investigation unfolds, pressure is mounting on Tea to address the breach and restore user trust in an increasingly scrutinized digital landscape.