The controversial apps “Tea” and “TeaOnHer” have finally been removed from the App Store, several months after a security scandal that exposed the personal data of thousands of users.
Amazon co-founder MacKenzie Scott has donated over $19 billion to charity in just five years
Diamond batteries powered by nuclear waste promise 28,000 years of clean energy
A Massive Data Breach Quietly Overlooked
Apple has made its decision. Months after a data breach scandal involving the dating apps Tea and TeaOnHer, the company has confirmed their removal from the App Store. This decision followed a series of repeated breaches of privacy and content moderation policies.
The issue dates back to July 2025, when 404 Media reported that Tea, marketed as a secure dating app, had allowed highly sensitive data to leak on the 4chan platform. The compromised information included identity cards, driver’s licenses, and even private user conversations—all stemming from a poorly configured database.
Despite the uproar caused by this leak, the app paradoxically soared to the top of the App Store rankings, fueled by internet users’ curiosity and media attention.
Apple Cites Multiple Rule Violations
In a statement to TechCrunch, Apple explained that it removed the two applications for failing to adhere to several sections of its App Review Guidelines (including: 1.2—Obligation to remove any inappropriate or harmful content; 5.1.2—Protection of personal information and privacy; 5.6—Prohibition of accumulating an excessive volume of complaints or negative reviews).
Apple noted that its teams had informed the developers of the issues found—including the alleged presence of content involving minors—but the necessary fixes were never made. We observed an excessive number of user complaints and reports of sensitive content. The developers were contacted, but the issues were not resolved
.
Why such a delayed reaction? The removal came nearly three months after the initial leak, a delay that raises questions. Apparently, the company had allowed a period of observation for the publishers to correct their technical flaws and review their moderation policies. However, due to ongoing inaction, the company ultimately decided to permanently remove the two apps.
Apple Tightens Its Security Policies Further
This incident highlights Apple’s zero-tolerance stance on user protection, a central theme in its communications for several years.
It also comes at a time when the company is intensifying its requirements on dating apps, which are already under scrutiny for their moderation and data collection practices.
Users who have installed Tea or TeaOnHer can still use them locally, but the apps are no longer available for download on the App Store, and their listings have been removed from searches.
NASA warns China could slow Earth’s rotation with one simple move
This dog endured 27 hours of labor and gave birth to a record-breaking number of puppies
A late decision, indeed, but one that confirms Apple’s commitment to reaffirming its role as a guardian of privacy—especially against platforms that have clearly lost control of it.