Tea app spills users’ images and IDs in data breach

A dating-related app that went viral recently, Tea, suffered a major data breach, leaking 72,000 private images, including 13,000 photo IDs and selfies of the users.

The women-only app became widely popular as users could upload images of men they have dated and red or green flag them. They can also write reviews and warn if a guy is a scammer.

It was among the top free Apple Store apps this week, and even stated that it has gained 2 million new users.

Users need to take selfies to show that they are women. Once approved, the company promises anonymity and bans screenshots.

However, the hacker accessed an old database allegedly kept for cyberbullying-related law enforcement compliance, the company said.

The app has fueled privacy concerns and backlash from users on online forums.

Tea’s team says it is working with third-party cybersecurity experts to secure its systems and prevent further exposure.