Hook-up apps, such as Grindr and Scruff, have become a popular way for the LGBTQ+ community to connect, and while they can bring us closer to others, it’s important to be mindful of bad-faith actors using the apps for the purposes of extortion.

Extortion on hook-up apps typically involves the threat of sharing a user’s intimate information or photos without consent. Often, victims may be lured into a false sense of security and believe the person they are chatting to is genuine. However, after sending intimate images, the person they are chatting to threatens to share the images unless the victim sends money.

Anyone may be a victim of extortion, but people who are not open about their sexuality, older people or teenagers may be particularly vulnerable. 

As you use the apps, keep these tips in mind and if you are being targeted for extortion, seek help immediately.

Protect yourself when sending your explicit images
If you are sending explicit photographs, try not to include identifying features such as your face or tattoos. Use expiring photos if you can.

Don’t share too much personal information
Don’t share anything you don’t need to or that could put you at risk.

Try to verify they are who they say they are
Ask for face pictures, or even better, a video chat, and check their socials if possible.

Trust your gut
If it feels wrong, listen to that feeling and act accordingly.

If they move too fast, make excuses, or ask for money, follow these guidelines. If you suspect something is not right with someone you are messaging on an app:

• Do not pay them.
• Do not engage with them any further. Block them.
• Report the user on the app.
• Take screenshots. Collect and save any other relevant information.
• Report it to any Garda station and Hotline.ie.
• Seek help. Do not suffer alone or be shamed into silence.

Find more tips, including how to lock down your social media, here.

The Galway Rape Crisis Centre have said they have seen an increase in people affected by image-based sexual abuse and warned that many victims may “feel hesitant” to seek support.

“Often marginalised communities feel they will not be understood, supported or even taken seriously,” a GRCC spokesperson said.

They continued: “The language and culture around IBSA often focus on blaming the victim and centre around the survivor and what they did or didn’t do. This can prevent people from even labelling their experience as sexually violent. We want to remind everyone that you deserve support! You can and should access a support service if you need it.”

If you have or think you may have experienced image-based sexual abuse, the GRCC helpline is 1800 355 355.

The National 24-hour Rape Crisis Helpline is 1800 77 88  88. Report it to Hotline.ie or contact a Garda station.