Teenage Tinder-like app Wizz kicked off App Store over sextortion claims

By William Gallagher

Wizz has been removed from both Apple's App Store and the Google Play Store over accusations it was used for sextortion scams.

Logo for social media app Wizz

Created by developers from the French firm Voodoo, Wizz was launched in 2019 with the aim of connecting strangers online in safety. "Expand your world meeting unexpected online people," is one of its promotion lines, and while not explicitly aimed at teenagers, they appear to have been a key segment of its users.

According to CNBC, Apple and Google were contacted by the National Center on Sexual Exploitation (NCOSE). The organization alleges that Wizz has been used in what are described as sextortion scams.

"We take App Store violations seriously and appreciate your outreach," Apple reportedly replied. "The app has been removed from the Store and we are in touch with the developer."

Similarly, a Google spokesperson said it had been suspended from Google Play.

"Apple and Google are seeking more information on our app," said a spokesperson for the Wizz app, "We are working closely with their teams to clarify our platform's extensive safeguards for users. We hope to resolve this matter soon."