The FBI in Miami is warning South Florida residents looking for connection about an increase in dating app robberies.
Read more Girl, 2, died after being left for 3 hours in hot car in Hallandale Beach, cops say
Authorities say the perpetrators target victims through dating apps to arrange a “private meeting” before robbing them.
Officials say that though dating scams have been around for years, “this one is particularly dangerous because of the element of violence involved.”
“In one instance, the meeting ended with the subject brandishing a firearm and robbing the victim of items and cash, then forcing the victim to withdrawal money from an automated teller machine,” the FBI said.
Read more ‘Time has come’: Tigers pitcher Justin Verlander will retire after 2026 season
Officials encourage anyone who may have been a target of a robbery to contact law enforcement immediately.
“A criminal posing as a legitimate dating interest can take advantage of a potential victim who is looking for a romantic relationship,” said Adam Berry, Assistant Special Agent in Charge, FBI Miami. “We urge people using dating apps to protect themselves. Ensure you are taking precautions to prevent yourself from falling into a dangerous situation.”
Read more Live updates: Today’s South Florida news
To stay safe on dating apps, the FBI encourages users to:
- not divulge their net worth
- meet in a safe location and be aware of your surroundings
- never divulge Personally Identifiable Information (PII) to strangers
- be cautious of “unverified” dating app profiles