Blog Post

Dating apps have revolutionized dating and relationships. They may have also made it easier for offenders to find their victims. We are regularly seeing cases like these (here here here) reported. While data in the US is still scarce, the United Kingdom's National Crime Agency reports the following alarming numbers around online dating in England, which can provide a warning to those in the US:

• The victims in 85% of these offences were female, 15% were male.
• Communications of a sexual nature prior to the first meeting in person were
  reported in more than half of cases where this data had been recorded.
• In 43% of cases where the information was available, the first face-to-face
  meeting between the victim and the offender took place within one week of
  their initial contact online
• In 41% of cases, the victim and offender started their date at a residence
• 72% of offences were committed at the victim’s or offender’s
  residence.

The best ways to stay safe on a first or blind date is to let people know your plans, meet separately in a public place, leave if you feel uncomfortable, have your phone with you, and never leave your drink unattended. And, have your Drink Safe date rape drug test kits or coasters with you at all times.