Bumble is facing backlash over its new AI Icebreakers feature, which uses OpenAI to generate opening messages on “Bumble for Friends.” The issue started with users being forced to accept data sharing with OpenAI via a persistent pop-up that reappears until clicked “Okay.”
The launch follows reports that Bumble doesn’t ask for explicit consent. Instead, it claims “legitimate interest” under GDPR to process user data, including sensitive info like sexual orientation, without clear permission. This has sparked serious privacy concerns in Europe.
Lisa Steinfeld, Data Protection Lawyer at noyb, slammed Bumble’s approach as misleading and abusive to users’ rights. 
“Bumble forces its AI features on millions of European users without ever asking them for their consent. Instead, their personal data is being sent to OpenAI and fed into the company’s AI systems.”
Users report Bumble’s banner gives a false sense of choice while pushing them to agree. Attempts by users to access details about data processing were met with incomplete info from Bumble.
“The fact that Bumble presents its users with option to say ‘Okay’ to AI Icebreakers is misleading. It creates a false sense of control over your own data. In reality, Bumble claims to have a so-called legitimate interest to use your data without any consent.”
noyb has filed a formal complaint with the Austrian data protection authority. They argue Bumble violates multiple GDPR articles by failing to be transparent, misusing legal basis for data use, and lacking proper user consent.
“Bumble’s claim to have a legitimate interest in sending user data to OpenAI is absurd. The dating app seems to be so desperate to get in on the AI hype that it is trampling on users’ fundamental rights in the process.”
noyb demands Bumble stop data processing tied to AI Icebreakers and urges the regulator to impose fines to prevent repeat offenses.
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Source: TechCrunch report
