From Match to Menace: A Systematic Literature Review of Violence Across Online Dating Platforms

This systematic literature review explores the prevalence and ways violence is enacted across online dating platforms. Drawing on 35 peer-reviewed publications from 2014 to 2025, the review uses the PRISMA-ScR (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension) methodology. A systematic search was conducted across SagePub, PubPsych and ScienceDirect. The review identified 42 distinct forms of violence and categorised these using a dual-axis framework which considered the Delivery method and the Type of harm enacted. Messaging was the most common Delivery method of violence, with 29 of 42 types of violence occurring through this medium. The second most common Delivery method, shown in 26 of 42 forms of violence was the transition of online to offline interactions. This was violence which occurred in-person proceeding the formation of an online acquaintanceship. Sexual violence was the most common Type of harm, shown in 21 of 42 forms of violence. Psychological/emotional harm was the second most common Type of harm shown in 20 of 42 forms of violence. The findings support previous literature indicating that online dating platforms are environments where violence is normalised and inadequately addressed. The review ultimately highlights the need for urgent, systemic intervention by platform developers and policymakers.