Filing a BBB Complaint to Get Unbanned from Tinder, Hinge, and Match Group Apps

The Better Business Bureau (BBB) serves as a mediator between users and companies, including Match Group’s dating apps like Tinder, Hinge, OkCupid, and Plenty of Fish (PoF). If you’ve been unfairly banned, filing a complaint with the BBB can push the company to review your case.

Since many people check BBB ratings and reviews before using a service, Match Group has an incentive to respond and resolve complaints to protect its reputation.

Over the past year, the BBB has helped resolve thousands of disputes related to dating app bans, making it a potential solution for users seeking reinstatement.

What You Need Before Filing a Complaint

Filing a BBB complaint isn’t a magic fix, so before you start, make sure you have a strong case. Here’s what you need to know:

• A Valid Case: The BBB won’t help if you were banned for breaking community guidelines (like harassment or inappropriate behavior). If your ban feels unfair or unclear, you have a better chance.
• Access to the BBB Website: The BBB mainly operates in the US, EU, UK, Canada, and a few other regions. You might need a VPN to access the site if you're outside these areas. Free options like Hotspot Shield work, or you can use paid services like NordVPN for better reliability.
• Patience: Once you file your complaint, the BBB gives Match Group 14 days to respond. If they don’t reply, the BBB might allow extra time. This process isn’t instant, so be ready to wait and decide if it’s worth it.

Before filing a complaint, some users prefer to first attempt a direct Tinder ban appeal, which can sometimes resolve the issue faster.

Step-by-Step Guide to Filing a BBB Complaint

If you’re ready to file a complaint, follow these steps carefully to improve your chances of getting a response.

1. Visit BBB.org

• Go to BBB.org and scroll down to find the “File a Complaint” section.
• You can also search for the dating app’s BBB page directly (e.g., BBB Tinder, BBB Hinge).
• When asked how the BBB can help, choose:
  “I’d like to file a complaint against a business and have BBB help me get a resolution.”
• Select the dating app you’re filing against.

If you're unsure why you were banned, check out this guide on why Tinder sometimes bans accounts without warning and how others have successfully appealed.

2. Provide Complaint Details

This is where you explain your situation clearly and persuasively.

• Personal Information: Enter your name, phone number, and any required contact details.
• Explain Your Complaint:
  • What happened? Briefly describe why you were banned.
  • When did it happen? Provide the date of the ban.
  • Why is it unfair? Show that you didn’t break any guidelines or that the ban was a mistake.
• Desired Outcome:
  • Choose “Other” and explain that you want to be unbanned.
  • Keep it professional and to the point.

Once everything is filled out, double-check your complaint before submitting. The BBB will send it to the dating app, and now, you just have to wait for their response.

If you're facing reduced activity without an outright ban, you might be dealing with a Hinge shadowban, which requires different steps to fix.

BBB Complaint Examples to Help You Get Unbanned

If you’re filing a BBB complaint, the way you frame your case matters. A strong, well-written complaint increases the chances of getting a response. Here are four approaches you can take, along with ready-to-use templates to make the process easier.

1. Emphasize the Unfairness of Your Ban

If you believe your ban was unjustified, explain why and ask for a fair review.

Template:

Hi,
I am requesting a review of my ban from [dating app] as I believe it was unfair. My profile and behavior did not violate the Community Guidelines, yet I was banned for [reason]. I believe this was a misunderstanding because [explain your intent].
I appreciate your time and hope for a resolution.
Thank you, [Your Name]

2. Point Out Inconsistent Enforcement

If you’ve seen others engage in the same behavior without being banned, highlight the inconsistency.

Template:

Hello,
I was banned from [dating app], but I have noticed that other users who did the same thing were not penalized. For example, I [describe your action], but I have seen many others continue to do this without facing consequences. This inconsistency makes it unclear what the actual rules are.
I would appreciate a fair review of my case.
Sincerely, [Your Name]

3. Express Confusion About the Ban

If you genuinely don’t understand why you were banned, express your confusion and ask for clarification.

Template:

Hi,
I am confused about my ban from [dating app] as I have always followed the rules. I never received a warning or an explanation, and I would like to understand what happened. If this was a mistake, I kindly request a second chance.
Thank you for your time, [Your Name]

4. Offer a Sincere Apology

If you acknowledge that you may have made a mistake, a polite apology can sometimes help.

Template:

Hello,
I take full responsibility for my actions that led to my ban from [dating app]. I truly regret what happened and have learned from my mistake. I have enjoyed using this platform for years and would love the opportunity to return.
I hope you can consider my request.
Warm regards, [Your Name]

Choose the template that best fits your situation, personalize it, and submit your complaint with confidence!

What If the BBB Can’t Help?

If the BBB rejects your complaint or the dating app refuses to reinstate your account, don’t worry—you still have options. The best solution is to create a new account while avoiding detection. Here’s how to do it:

1. Restart Your Device. This helps clear any cached data that might link you to your old account.
2. Create a New Apple ID or Samsung Account. Some dating apps track your device’s information. Setting up a new Apple ID (iPhone) or Samsung account can make your device appear new.
3. Change Your Internet Connection. If possible, switch to a different Wi-Fi network or use mobile data instead. This prevents the app from recognizing your IP address.
4. Get a New Phone Number. Dating apps track accounts through phone numbers. Using a new number is crucial for starting fresh. DatingZest provides numbers that work with apps like Tinder, Hinge, and Bumble, helping you create a new profile without issues.

If you've tried everything and still can't get unbanned, it’s possible that Tinder has banned your phone and is preventing any new account creation.

FAQ About BBB Appeal

How long does it take for the BBB to respond?

After you file your complaint, the BBB usually replies within a few days. They then give the dating app up to 14 days to respond. In total, expect to wait one to two weeks for a decision.

What happens if I get unbanned?

If your complaint is successful, your profile, phone number, email, and device will be reinstated. You’ll be able to log in and use the app as before.

What if my complaint is rejected?

If the BBB can’t help, you still have options. You can create a new account using a different phone number from DatingZest or try a different dating app.

No matter the outcome, don’t let one ban stop you from finding connections. Good luck!

Good luck.

Liam.