In a disturbing trend affecting our LGBTIQ+ community, police have uncovered a series of targeted attacks through hookup apps like Grindr, primarily affecting gay men. More than 35 arrests have been made in connection with these incidents, where homophobes created fake profiles to lure victims into dangerous situations.
The attacks, which have occurred mainly in Melbourne's outer suburbs including Manningham, Casey, Hume, Moorabbin and Knox, have involved assault, robbery, threats, false imprisonment, and kidnapping. Some attackers have even recorded and shared footage of their victims on social media.
How to Stay Safe on Dating Apps
Acting Superintendent Carolyn Deer has urged hookup app users to take extra precautions:
- Always verify who you're talking to and meeting
- Protect your identity and location information
- Trust your instincts - if something feels off, it probably is
- Meet in public places for initial meetings
- Share your location and meeting details with a trusted friend
- Consider video chatting before meeting in person
The violence has prompted dating platforms including Grindr and Scruff to display safety messages in areas where users have been targeted. Remember, even if profiles are blocked or deleted, police can still investigate these crimes.
Community Response
Simon Ruth, CEO of Thorne Harbour Health, has called for urgent action at both state and federal levels, describing these attacks as "a serious threat of national significance." Similar incidents have been reported across multiple states, including Queensland, New South Wales, the ACT, and Western Australia.
If you've been a victim of hookup app violence or have information about these incidents, contact police immediately. Your safety is paramount, and we hope that the institutionally homophobic police deprtment will get off their arses and do some thing about it.