The New Zealand Police say users of dating and hookup apps need to ensure they are being conscious of their safety and they take an interest in tech developments that would assist victims of crime. The advice comes as the UK Police push for mandatory safety warnings on the apps. Following the murder of four men who were baited on Grindr, the UK National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) is calling for dating apps to take more responsibility to protect the safety of users. Chief Constable Jane Sawyers, the UK Police lead for LGBTI issues, told the BBC that apps could do more to prevent crime and should come with mandatory safety messages. Here in New Zealand, the Police say users need to be very safety conscious when using apps such as Grindr or Tinder. A Police spokesperson says "Police are aware of a range of offending as a result of people meeting other people through online dating and dating apps. "While we are not in a position to comment on the specifics of any measures called for in other jurisdictions, New Zealand Police takes an interest in technological developments that would assist victims and help to keep them safe. The Police recommend "Anyone using dating sites and apps needs to be very careful when developing relationships online. It’s very important that if people are planning to meet someone in person, that they tell a friend, meet in a public place during daylight hours, or even take a friend with them to the meeting. "Anyone who believes they are a victim of any crime, in person or online, should report the matter to their local Police.”
Credit: GayNZ.com Daily News staff
First published: Monday, 28th November 2016 - 10:56am