The researchers analyzed the records of nearly 2,000 sexual assault victims between 2017 and 2020 and found that 14 percent of the attacks occurred after meeting on dating apps. Details were published in the “Journal of Interpersonal Violence”.
More violent attacks
According to BYU researcher Julie Valentine, what is troubling is that the attacks are significantly more violent and the victims are becoming mentally ill as a result. “These people can be more susceptible to flattery and more easily persuaded to meet in person,” says Valentine. On a dating app, they could present themselves in such a way that they appear sympathetic to the victims.
College students are most likely to be targeted, with experts involved in the research calling current dating app security measures inadequate. “People used to meet at mutual friends' houses, at work or at school, and there was a certain level of vetting that took place before a date. “Dating apps have completely taken away the process,” criticizes Valentine.
Law for more security
The study authors began drafting a bill called “Online Dating Safety Requirements” in collaboration with dating apps and lawmakers. Valentine and her team hope other states across the U.S. will do the same. She recommends that dating app providers use artificial intelligence to identify potential sex offenders.
Despite the dangers, Valentine said she doesn't want people to stop using dating apps. She just wants them to take more safety precautions. “It is, after all, the most common way to find partners these days,” she concludes.
Source:
Press release
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