Enito Group's Initiative Against SNS Fraud
In a significant move to enhance user safety and combat SNS-based investment and romance scams, Enito Group, which manages the matching applications "with" and "Omiai," has joined forces with the Wakayama Prefectural Police. This collaboration aims to raise awareness about the potential dangers lurking in the world of online matchmaking, particularly for users residing in Wakayama Prefecture.
As the second instance of such a partnership in Japan, following a similar initiative with the Chiba Prefectural Police, this collaboration signifies a proactive step in addressing the alarming rise of scams that have, according to recent figures, inflicted approximately 153 million yen in damages in Wakayama alone by August 2025. The Wakayama Police have been spearheading their efforts to educate the public about these schemes through various channels, such as their official website and social media platforms.
The Enito Group has established a dedicated Trust & Safety department right from its inception, focusing on creating a safe environment for users of their matching apps. This department operates a 24/7 monitoring system to detect fraudulent activity, combining AI technology and manual oversight. Through rigorous monitoring, they aim to swiftly identify malicious users and take necessary actions, including permanent account bans and personal alerts to users who may have engaged with these scammers.
Additionally, the group has implemented measures to send warnings to both parties in case of any attempted exchange of social media contacts during conversations on the app prior to meeting in person, reinforcing their commitment to user safety. Enito has also formed an Advisory Board comprising legal experts, consumer protection advocates, and academics to tackle societal challenges associated with online dating, promoting practices that prioritize user trust and safety.
Moreover, ongoing communication with law enforcement, including regular information sharing with national and prefectural police, highlights Enito Group's dedication to keeping their users informed and protected against innovations in fraud tactics. In collaboration with the Wakayama Prefectural Police, this initiative educates users on the tactics used by scammers and offers practical advice on how to avoid falling victim to such schemes.
Comments from Wakayama Police
The Wakayama Prefectural Police describe SNS romance fraud as a method where perpetrators lure victims into financial scams without ever meeting in person, often guiding them to communicate on platforms like LINE. They emphasize the importance of caution while using matchmaking apps and encourage users to remain vigilant against such tactics. The collaboration with Enito Group aims to effectively spread awareness to app users in Wakayama to mitigate the risk of falling prey to these scams.
As the role of matchmaking applications continues to expand, with increasing usage and societal acceptance, Enito Group aims to be a reliable supporter of diverse life events spurred by these connections. This initiative against fraud is just one aspect of their broader mission to provide new value to society through their platform.
Background on the Matching App Market
According to a report by the Children’s Family Agency published in November 2024, a significant 25.1% of married couples met through matching apps. This statistic reflects the growing recognition of apps like "with" and "Omiai" as essential platforms for forming lasting relationships and underscores the importance of user security within these environments. Enhanced safety protocols and third-party certifications, such as the IMS certification, further bolster the credibility of these applications, ensuring that more people can safely engage with them.
With the cumulative number of users across "with" and "Omiai" exceeding 20 million by July 2024, the demand for trustworthy online matching services is evidently strong. Enito Group remains committed to not only maintaining a secure user experience but also to adapting to the needs of society, using technology to improve the matching experience and supporting personal connections.
In conclusion, Enito Group's collaboration with Wakayama Police demonstrates a dedicated effort to combat fraud while enhancing the user experience on their platforms. Through continuous vigilance and community partnership, they aim to create a safe space for those seeking meaningful connections online.