Sexual orientations leaked: what it means and what to do
Risk level: critical. Can you change it: no. Found in 10 breaches in this directory.
What this data is
Information about who you are attracted to, such as gay, lesbian, bisexual or heterosexual, recorded by dating apps, surveys, health services, social platforms or community organisations.
The risk on its own
Sexual orientation is special category data because exposure can lead to discrimination, family rejection, harassment or violence. Many people choose carefully who knows, and a leak removes that choice. It cannot be changed or taken back.
The risk combined with other data
With your name, photo, location or workplace, a leaked orientation can out you to family, colleagues or community. In countries where same sex relationships are criminalised or socially dangerous, it can put your freedom or safety at risk. Extortionists may target people they believe are not openly out.
How criminals use it
An extortionist threatens to reveal your orientation to family unless you pay.
Users of an LGBTQ dating app are identified and harassed by people who obtained the leak.
Authorities or hostile groups use leaked data to target people in countries with anti LGBTQ laws.
A scammer builds trust by pretending to share your identity, then asks for money or intimate photos.
What to do now
If you feel unsafe, contact local police, an LGBTQ support organisation or a trusted person immediately.
Do not pay extortion demands, and keep all messages as evidence.
Review dating and social profiles and remove face photos, workplace details or locations that identify you.
Change passwords on affected apps and use a separate email address for sensitive accounts.
If you are in a high risk country, seek advice from a digital security helpline for at risk communities.
Frequently asked questions
What if I am not out to my family?
Prioritise your safety. Speak to an LGBTQ support service about options and plan who you can turn to if someone threatens disclosure.
Can the dating app be held responsible?
Depending on your country, the company may face action from a privacy regulator. You can also make a complaint.
How can I use dating apps more safely?
Use a separate email, avoid identifying photos, limit location sharing and be cautious about moving conversations off the app.
Breaches that exposed this data
Fling: 2011-03-10, 41M accounts, Dates of birth, Email addresses, Genders, Geographic locations, IP addresses, Passwords
Breach data sourced from Have I Been Pwned, used under CC BY 4.0. Additional breach metadata provided by XposedOrNot. DataExposed is an independent service and is not affiliated with or endorsed by either.