Train company swipes left on dating apps

Northern blocked dating apps as part of the 'Friendly WiFi' scheme

A train operator has issued a reminder to passengers that its on-board WiFi does not allow dating apps.

Northern, which runs trains across the north of England, said it was reiterating the message for "older people and adults who have been off over the summer - and maybe not found that holiday romance".

But the company said there was a good reason customers "would be unable to find their perfect partner during their journey".

Dating apps were first blocked in 2017, along with other adult content, due to some sites not having "appropriate levels of self-moderation", a spokesperson said.

Northern is a member of the Friendly Wi-Fi scheme, which has links with the UK Council for Child Internet Safety (UKCCIS).

The scheme makes sure its on-board internet meets filtering standards suitable for any children that might be using it.

Nudity and gambling blocked

Chief operating officer Matt Rice said it was important content not suitable for younger passengers was not viewed on trains.

“Whilst some dating websites, and users, will operate with appropriate levels of self-moderation, some might not," he said.

Last year the company also reminded customers that content known as NSFW - not safe for work - such as inappropriate jokes, bad language, offensive topics and explicit material, was not appropriate to view on its trains.

The rail network blocks websites and apps relating to video streaming, gambling, alcohol, adult content, pornography, nudity and dating.

However, the firm added it still wished its single customers "all the best in their search for a perfect partner".