Dating apps are cracking down on 'ghosting', as the practice of ignoring a potential partner after speaking to or going on a date with them is causing would-be romantics to delete their accounts.

As finding partners using apps becomes more popular, 'ghosting' is on the rise, as having seemingly infinite options makes it feel as though people are disposable, experts have said.

The app Bumble is trying to eliminate the behaviour altogether, by sending prompts to people who have not replied to messages, urging them to either politely end the conversation or continue it.

It has asked users to stop the practice, and to take a "ghosting vow" before they use the app, as well as providing support and advice to those who have experienced the behaviour.

Dating app Badoo has implemented a similar strategy; if a user has not replied to someone after three days, Badoo will notify the user and provide reply suggestions. For those who are no longer interested in their match, they can simply choose to close the chat or use one of the polite responses, “Hey I think you’re great, but I don’t see us as a match. Take care!”.