Reporting and Support After Hookup App Violence
17 Oct 2025
A rise in assaults, robberies, and blackmail targeting queer men on dating and hookup apps has shaken our communities. This article outlines how to report these incidents and where to find confidential and respectful supprort.
In Victoria alone, police have made at least 35 arrests — but we know many more people haven’t yet come forward. The true scale of this violence is likely much greater.
These incidents are not limited to Victoria. Similar patterns — often targeting gay, bi+, and queer men — have been reported across Australia, New Zealand, India, Malaysia, the UK, and other countries. While the details vary, the intent is the same: to exploit trust, privacy, and stigma.
In many cases, attackers pose as potential dates or hookups on apps like Grindr. They lure the victim to a private location, then assault, rob, or film them without consent. These recordings are sometimes used for blackmail, threatening to out victims to family or employers unless money or valuables are handed over.
A Concerning Subset: Underage Deception and Blackmail
A particularly complex form of these attacks involves perpetrators pretending to be underage.
Even though apps like Grindr are restricted to users aged 18+, it’s easy for someone to lie about their age. In some cases, attackers initiate a sexual conversation or encounter, then later claim to be underage — threatening to expose or blackmail the other person.
This form of entrapment preys on fear, shame, and legal vulnerability. If someone claims to be underage after contact on an app — it’s vital to act quickly:
- Stop all contact immediately. Continuing contact may expose you to legal risk, criminal charges, or even imprisonment.
- Take screenshots of the chat or profile as evidence.
- Report the account to the app (e.g. Grindr).
- Do not send money or images.
- Seek legal advice before responding further.
Reporting on Grindr and Other Apps
Grindr and similar platforms have tools to report harassment, threats, blackmail, or underage activity directly through the app. While this does not replace a police report, it helps platforms take down fake or abusive accounts.
To report on Grindr:
- Open the profile of the person you want to report.
- Tap the “⚠️” icon or the three dots (•••) in the top corner.
- Select “Report” and choose the relevant reason (e.g. Harassment, Blackmail, Underage User, Impersonation).
- Add brief details — including if you believe the account is part of a larger scam or criminal pattern.
If you’ve already blocked the user, you can still email help@grindr.com with screenshots and details. Grindr’s moderation team can forward reports to law enforcement if required.
The same applies to other apps (Scruff, Tinder, Sniffies, etc.) — look for “Report” options in settings or on the user’s profile.
Reporting to Authorities
You have several options for reporting, depending on your situation and comfort level.
Speak to an LGBTIQ+ Liaison Officer (LLO)
LLOs are police officers specially trained to work with our communities. They understand the realities of hookup culture, stigma, and how shame can be used as a weapon. You can request an LLO when contacting your local police station.
Report Anonymously via Crime Stoppers
If you’re not ready to speak to police directly — particularly if you’re closeted or worried about privacy — you can still report safely and anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Every report builds a clearer picture of what’s happening and can help prevent others from being harmed.
For non-emergencies, call the Police Assistance Line on 131 444 or report online via the official portal.
Finding Support
Experiencing an attack — whether physical, emotional, or digital — can have a lasting impact. Shame, isolation, and fear are common responses, but you don’t have to go through it alone.
Rainbow Door – Press 1 for Support
Call 1800 729 367 and press 1 to speak with someone at Rainbow Door who understands LGBTIQA+ experiences. They can:
- Advise you on whether and how to report
- Connect you with legal and psychological support
- Refer you to services like Thorne Harbour Health
Thorne Harbour Health – Fast-Tracked Services
To support people impacted by this violence, Thorne Harbour Health has reduced wait times for key services, including:
Call our intake team on (03) 9865 6700, or ask Rainbow Door for a referral.
These attacks are a breach of trust, safety, and community. They are not your fault.
Whether you choose to report or not, help is available — confidentially, respectfully, and without judgment.