Bumble has updated its community guidelines to have a strict line on no show dates, with the act of intentionally standing someone up on a planned date now falling under its bullying and abusive conduct guidelines. And because polter-ghosting is now included in the app’s code of conduct, it means people can choose to report it. If an individual is reported multiple times, they may be banned from Bumble altogether.

Dr Caroline West, Bumble’s sex and relationship expert, said: “The act of polter-ghosting, or intentionally not showing up for a planned date, is not okay. Now, if someone consistently doesn’t show up for dates, they risk being reported and banned from Bumble. Being stood up on a date can really knock someone’s confidence in a big way – it’s a horrible feeling that no one should have to experience.”

To help people cope with being polter-ghosted, Dr West has the following tips:

Channel your own energy: “It’s Halloween, so naturally there are plenty of devils, demons and polter-ghosts trying to interrupt your good time – don’t let them. A polter-ghost’s energy reflects more on them than it does on you, so it’s important to remember that. Whilst it’s hard to keep that mindset when it’s happening, focusing on yourself, with a little bit of salt over the shoulder, can keep the polter-ghosts away.”

Every trick needs a treat: “Chances are, you’re already dressed up and ready to have a good time by the time you realise you’ve been polter-ghosted. Whether you’re at a bar, restaurant or on an activity date, there’s nothing stopping you still enjoying yourself. If someone has played a trick on you, you deserve to give yourself a treat.”

Get polter-ghost busting: “Bumble’s community guidelines only work if people report bad behaviour they experience. If this happens to you, become your own polter-ghostbuster, make sure that you get your revenge and help protect other people by using Bumble’s report function.”

Been stood up on a date? Polter-ghosting is the latest dating trend that Bumble is cracking down on