Rail agency tells passengers ‘we do not function love trains’ as courting apps banned

Bosses of a UK rail company operating across the north of England has reminded its passengers that it does not run “love trains”.

Northern has announced that is has banned access to dating sites via its on-board Wi-Fi. The firm, which restricted access to certain content on its on-board Wi-Fi back in 2017, stated that dating apps and other adult content sites are blocked due to some sites lacking “appropriate levels of self-moderation”.

Matt Rice, the chief operating officer, said: “We welcome millions of people on-board our trains every year and access to safe and reliable internet is part and parcel of our customers’ expectations.

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“Whilst some dating websites and users will operate with appropriate levels of self-moderation, some might not. It’s important that content not suitable for everyone to see or hear – particularly children isn’t viewed on our trains. With some of the other banned categories it’s simply about ensuring that there is sufficient bandwidth for all our customers to use while they’re on the go.

“This on-board dating app embargo aside, we wish our single customers all the best in their search for their perfect partner.”

Other sites blocked include those featuring video streaming, gambling, alcohol, adult content, pornography and nudity, as part of the firm’s “Friendly Wi-Fi” policy. The company stated that its on-board internet service adheres to minimum filtering standards, considering the potential presence of children.

Last year, it reminded customers that “NSFW content” (Not Suitable For Work) was not appropriate to view on-board its trains. Content considered “NSFW” can range from inappropriate jokes and bad language to offensive topics and explicit material.

As it stands, Northern is the only company to make such restrictions on it’s on-board Wi-Fi services, so for those looking for love . . . maybe head to Virgin Rail (pun intended).

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