A Promising Start Marred by a Major Data Breach
Launched in March 2024, the RAW dating app was designed with a bold promise: to prioritize user safety and privacy. Founded by Marina Anderson and her team, RAW aimed to empower women by implementing strict verification measures, including phone number authentication and daily unedited photo submissions to combat catfishing. The app quickly gained traction, attracting users who valued its commitment to transparency and security.
However, just two months after its debut, RAW faced a severe setback. In May 2025, reports surfaced that the app had suffered a significant data breach, exposing sensitive user information. The breach, caused by a misconfigured Amazon Web Services (AWS) S3 storage bucket, leaked approximately 340 gigabytes of data, affecting over 260,000 user profiles.
What Data Was Exposed?
The compromised data included highly personal details, such as:
- Real names and email addresses
- IP addresses and precise geolocation data
- Private chat logs and audio recordings
- Explicit photos shared within the app
Security researchers highlighted the severity of the breach, noting that the geolocation data was accurate enough to pinpoint users’ exact residential addresses. This level of detail raised alarms about potential stalking, harassment, or other malicious activities.
RAW’s Response and User Concerns
In the wake of the breach, RAW’s parent company, Siling App, acted swiftly to address the issue. A spokesperson stated, “We were aware of the situation and secured the database immediately when the problem occurred.” While the company’s prompt action was commendable, the incident left many users questioning the app’s initial claims of robust security.
For a platform that marketed itself as a safe space for women, the breach was particularly damaging. Users expressed frustration and fear, with some considering legal action. “I joined RAW because I thought it was different—more secure,” said one affected user. “Now, I feel violated.”
The Broader Implications for Dating Apps
The RAW breach is not an isolated incident. Dating apps, by their nature, handle vast amounts of sensitive data, making them prime targets for cyberattacks. Here’s how RAW’s breach compares to other notable incidents in the industry:
| App | Year | Data Exposed | Number of Users Affected |
|---|---|---|---|
| RAW | 2025 | Names, emails, geolocation, private chats, photos | 260,000 |
| Other Dating App X | 2023 | Emails, passwords, profile data | 500,000 |
| Another Dating App Y | 2022 | Payment details, messages | 1.2 million |
How Users Can Protect Themselves
While companies must prioritize data security, users can also take steps to safeguard their privacy:
- Limit shared information: Avoid disclosing sensitive details like your home address or workplace.
- Use strong passwords: Unique, complex passwords reduce the risk of unauthorized access.
- Enable two-factor authentication: Adds an extra layer of security to your accounts.
- Monitor for unusual activity: Regularly check your accounts for signs of compromise.
Looking Ahead: Can RAW Recover?
The RAW data breach serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities inherent in digital platforms, especially those handling intimate user data. For RAW, the path to redemption will require more than just fixing technical flaws—it will demand rebuilding trust with its user base.
As the company works to enhance its security measures, the broader tech industry must also take note. In an era where data privacy is paramount, platforms must go beyond promises and deliver tangible protections for their users.
For now, RAW’s future hangs in the balance. Will it emerge stronger from this crisis, or will the breach mark the end of its short-lived success? Only time will tell.
