Swipe with Caution: Dating Apps and a Rise in Crime in Gauteng

 In today’s edition of Sakisizwe (12–2 PM on Bush Radio), we tackled a growing safety issue that’s affecting communities across South Africa: violent crimes linked to dating apps and social media hookups.

Joining us was Dr. Bandile Masuku, Chairperson of the Gauteng Portfolio Committee on Community Safety, who revealed alarming insights about how fake profiles, catfishing, and quick online relationships are being used to lure victims into dangerous situations.

📍 Recent incidents in areas like Maboneng involve:

• Robberies during meetups

• Kidnappings and sexual assaults

• Scams disguised as romantic encounters or online sales

“People are searching for connection,” Dr. Masuku said, “but criminals are exploiting that need.”

⚠️ How to Stay Safe

Dr. Masuku shared key safety tips:

• ✅ Always verify someone’s identity before meeting (try a video call)

• ✅ Meet in public places, never secluded spots

• ✅ Tell someone where you’re going and who you’re meeting

• ✅ Report any suspicious behavior immediately to the police

These crimes can escalate fast—sometimes within just two hours of meeting.

🏳️‍🌈 LGBTQIA+ Communities at Higher Risk

Members of the LGBTQIA+ community face even greater danger, with targeted attacks reported. In some cases, individuals were lured through community-specific apps, then robbed or assaulted.

                                         

🛡️ What’s Being Done?

The Committee is advocating for:

• Regulations to verify users on dating platforms

• Public awareness campaigns on digital safety

• Better police training for tech-facilitated crimes

Dr. Masuku also called for greater accountability from app companies, especially those that allow anonymous or unverified accounts.

“Technology can connect us, but it can also deceive us. Awareness, vigilance, and regulation are key.” — Dr. Bandile Masuku

  📻 Tune into Sakisizwe, weekdays from 12:00 to 14:00 on Bush Radio 89.5 FM, for critical conversations that keep you informed and empowered.

#Sakìsizwe #BushRadio #DatingAppCrimes #OnlineSafety #Gauteng #LGBTQISafety #DigitalCrime #DrBandileMasuku #CommunitySafety #SwipeSafely

Created by Emmanuelle MORIOT