Grindr Grilled! Norwegian Court Slaps Gay Dating App with Record 65M Fine — Privacy Wins Again!

Privacy Prevails! Grindr Slammed with Record Fine in Landmark LGBTQ+ Data Case

In a resounding win for digital privacy and LGBTQ+ rights, Norway’s Court of Appeal has upheld a staggering 65 million kroner fine against gay dating app Grindr — marking the second time the app has lost in Norwegian court over its controversial data-sharing practices.

Grindr’s Appeal Crumbles — Again

Grindr had hoped to overturn the record penalty issued by the Norwegian Data Protection Authority, which found the app guilty of violating the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) by sharing sensitive user data with advertising partners. But the Borgarting Court of Appeal wasn’t swayed. In its ruling, the court declared there was «no basis for reducing the record fine», echoing the earlier district court decision.

Grindr has been ordered to pay a fine of 65 million Norwegian kroner (approximately €5.5 million) following a ruling by Norway’s Borgarting Court of Appeal on October 21, 2025.

State Prosecutors Celebrate a Win for LGBTQ+ Privacy

«This is a victory for privacy and for the right to control one’s own sensitive personal data», said Hanne Jahren and Vilde Aggvin from the Norwegian Public Prosecutor’s Office, in a statement that underscores the broader implications for LGBTQ+ communities who rely on dating apps to connect safely and authentically.

Why This Matters

For many LGBTQ+ individuals, dating apps like Grindr are more than just platforms — they’re lifelines. But with that trust comes responsibility. The ruling sends a powerful message: queer users deserve transparency and protection, not exploitation.

NRK Reports: A Complete Victory for the State

Norwegian broadcaster NRK covered the story in detail, calling it a «complete victory for the state». You can read their full report here.

What’s Next?

While the decision isn’t final — Grindr has one month to appeal to the Supreme Court — the message is clear: LGBTQ+ data rights are not negotiable. And Norway is leading the charge in holding tech giants accountable.

NRK’s Coverage Highlights the Stakes

NRK’s reporting emphasises the significance of the case, not just for Grindr, but for all platforms handling sensitive data. It’s a wake-up call for the tech world: respect privacy, or pay the price.

Stay tuned — this story isn’t over yet. But for now, privacy wins, and the LGBTQ+ community stands a little taller.