Crimes linked to dating apps increase seven-fold

The number of alleged crimes in the UK potentially involving people’s use of dating apps Tinder and Grindr increased more than sevenfold in two years — including reports of rape, grooming, and attempted murder.

Experts said the findings were “shocking” and urged the authorities to launch a campaign to raise awareness of the dangers of meeting strangers on so-called hook-up sites.

They said users were vulnerable to “sextortion” and warned the figures may be “just the tip of the iceberg” as many victims will be too scared or embarrassed to contact police.