Dating app Hinge has implemented facial age estimation requirements for users in the UK and Australia to comply with new online safety regulations, while expanding biometric liveness detection from FaceTec to all users globally. The company, owned by Match Group, now requires “at least one clear photo that shows your face” from every user to confirm they meet minimum age requirements.

Match Group, which operates Tinder, Match.com, OkCupid and other dating platforms, previously made face liveness verification mandatory for U.S. Tinder users in October and plans to integrate facial verification into other apps in its portfolio by early 2026. The company has used selfie biometrics for user security since 2020.

U.S.-based Hinge users already must provide facial images for selfie verification and liveness detection through the Face Check system. The technology uses facial scanning to verify that video selfies are taken of real, live persons and have not been digitally altered or manipulated.

The system detects faces in video selfies and profile photos, using facial geometry to generate a unique “FaceVector” number. It also scans for duplicate faces among profile images, with verified users receiving a “Selfie Verified” badge.

According to the company’s privacy policy, age estimates and three audit images from video selfies are retained for managing Face Check, compliance obligations and confirming user likeness. The data may also be used to train machine learning models for trust and safety tools.

For UK users undergoing age estimation, photos are kept for up to three months after the check is complete. Hashed age check photos and age assurance results are then retained for one year.

FaceTec has established partnerships with other dating platforms including Grindr and Meet Group for similar face liveness and age verification services.