…that’s how many guys said they would, or already have, broken lockdown rules to hook-up, as revealed in a survey by DNA. Conall Ferguson reports.

Your health comes first.”

So began a pop-up which greeted many as they logged in to Grindr in mid-March. In the full-screen message, users were urged by the app’s developers to keep washing their hands, avoid touching their face and stay home if they felt unwell; all to help combat the spread of coronavirus.

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Almost two months later, as global infection rates soar and the pandemic continues to devastate communities, The World Health Organisation now also recommends that we practise social distancing at all times; keeping a distance of at least 1 metre from people you do not live with.

Off the back of this advice, many other dating apps including Tinder and Match.com, have offered free features like global chat or video calling, to help ensure their users remain safe and, crucially, apart.

However, despite the scientific advice and initiatives by tech giants, some remain unperturbed by the risks; and are continuing to take their own interactions offline…

In May, DNA launched an online survey to gather opinions from guys who use dating apps and to understand more about their attitudes to social distancing, dating and hooking-up during the coronavirus era.