While the PUBG ban had been lifted in Pakistan, social media users were worried about the rumor that YouTube will be next to get banned in the country. However, Pakistan Telecommunications AuthÂoÂrity’s [PTA] next move took people by surprise as they imposed a ban on dating apps.
Mobile phone apps like Tinder, Grindr, Tagged, Skout, and SayHi have been banned in the country. The concerned officials have requested such apps to moderate and censor content in accordance with the local laws.
As a result of this, LGBTQ dating app Grindr expressed its disappointment. The COO, Rick Marini, wrote an email to Reuters and said:
We are deeply disappointed by the … decision to ban Grindr and other dating apps that allow Pakistani citizens to connect with others on our platforms.
While Grindr is extremely discouraged, Tinder is taking this opportunity to discuss the matter with PTA. They are willing to move forward and work together in making the app accessible in Pakistan again. A statement was shared by the Tinder team, which said:
Our team uses a network of industry-leading automated and manual moderation and review tools, systems and processes – and invests significant resources – to prevent, monitor and remove inappropriate content from our app.
We welcome the opportunity to discuss our product and moderation efforts with the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority and look forward to a meaningful conversation.
In addition to this, YouTube has been asked twice in a week to block certain content for viewing in the country. It is pertinent to note that the video streaming app was blocked for a period of 3 years till 2016 in Pakistan.
How popular are Tinder and Grindr in Pakistan?
Reuters reports that the number of downloads for Tinder to be 440,000 in the past 12 months in Pakistan, while Grindr, Tagged and SayHi were downloaded around 300,000 times. During the same period, Skout was downloaded approximately 100,000 times.
Tinder is making to discuss the matter and follow through with the country’s regulations.
Do you think the ban on this app will be lifted? Let us know in the comments section.
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also block tiktok with them.