Dating apps have become a common way for people to connect, and while many users have a positive experience, Victoria Police have received an increase in reports of people being sexually assaulted after meeting in person.
In concerning trends identified by investigators, this can include rape, sexual or inappropriate touching and sexual harassment.
Police want to make it clear that any form of sexual offending is completely unacceptable, and consent can be given or withdrawn, at any time, for any reason.
If you experience any form of sexual offending linked to the use of dating apps, police are asking you to contact them.
Police can request information from dating apps to assist in solving sexual offence investigations and can also conduct a criminal investigation even where one party has blocked or deleted someone from the app.
It is never too late to report an incident.
If you need support you can contact any of the following numbers:
1800RESPECT: 1800 737 732
Sexual Assault Crisis Line: 1800 806 292
Kids Helpline: 1800 55 1800
Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636
Lifeline: 13 11 14 or SMS 0477 13 11 14
and
13YARN: 13 92 76
As always, if you or someone else is in immediate danger, call Triple Zero (000).
