Richmond RCMP are warning the public to be cautious when using dating apps after two people were assaulted during meet-ups.
Over the weekend, two individuals used a dating app called Tantan to meet a woman they believed was called Stephanie.
In the first instance, a man arranged to meet the woman Saturday, September 8th around 7 am. Two suspects assaulted the 32-year-old man while he was waiting for the woman to arrive; however, he was able to escape.
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In the second instance, a man arranged to meet the woman the following day, Sunday, September 9th around 3 am. Three suspects assaulted the 23-year-old man, and one of them held a knife. From there, the victim was abducted. His captors drove him to a bank in the 3700 block of No. 3 Road and forced him to withdraw money. In addition, the suspects allegedly robbed him and stole his clothing.
“Police are warning the public to exercise caution whenever Tantan or other similar dating apps are used. Unless trust is guaranteed, it is inherently dangerous to meet strangers in non-public areas,” said Richmond RCMP Cpl. Dennis Hwang.
“These two incidents in such close proximity are highly concerning to police.”
Tantan Dating App
“Browse the profiles recommended to you based on your location, distance and gender preferences. Swipe right if you like someone, and swipe left to pass. It couldn’t be any simpler,” states the App’s website.
While identifying a date seems simple enough, it doesn’t ensure personal safety. For one, anyone can create a fake profile, and therefore it is difficult to know exactly who is being honest.
With that in mind, the app states that your personal information is strictly confidential.
“Your dating life is private. We get it. You can choose to hide your contacts, which will ensure contacts in your address book won’t be suggested to you, nor you to them.”
So, unless you volunteer information, people shouldn’t be able to access more than what you provide. Nevertheless, people are advised against meeting strangers in non-public places, or providing them with personal details that may compromise their safety.
Anyone with information about either incident or who may have experienced interactions with a Tantan user by the same name is asked to contact Const. Reid with the Richmond RCMP at 604-278-1212 or email [email protected].
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