People using dating apps have to be extra cautious as criminals are looking out for individuals who use these mobile dating apps to make connections and also for people who regularly buy or sell items.

FBI received as many as 791,790 cases of web crime last year with around a loss estimated to be around $4.1 billion. It is always better to be careful and share as little information as possible on dating apps especially personal information related to banking should not be disclosed. Popular apps like Snapchat, Offerup, Craigslist, Letgo and various dating apps have been targeted by criminals.

UCF Police Department Detective Agustin Gonzalez, part of the Criminal Investigations Division advises to the UCF community to “Always trust your instincts”. According to him “If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is”. UCF Police Department has also set up an emergency line 911 and non-emergency line 407-823-5555. People can also reach out to report crime through victim advocate 24/7 by calling 407-823-1200 or by texting 407-823-6868. Christian Mouton ’98 ’01MS, director of victim services says “Some apps are well-intentioned. They want to connect people, whether it’s through relationships, friendships or even just making a few dollars”.

Social media and dating apps might be fun but one has to be safe while making decisions on this platform and should not share their personal information, location, bank details and other important things unless and until it is through valid source and is mandatory.