Police are searching for three men after a string of robberies in Baltimore that appear to be linked to online services & apps.
A series of robberies, two of which are said to have been armed, has led to a police hunt for three men.
The suspects are said to have been using social networks and dating apps, including the popular gay hook-up app Grindr, to meet their victims before luring them to apartment blocks and in some cases a laundry room, before robbing them and even stealing vehicles.
The robberies allegedly took place on 25th October, 6th November, 10th November and 11th November 2016 around Loch Raven Boulevard, Hillen Road and Woodbourne Avenue.
And police are now warning online daters and social network users to be extra vigilant and make sure they take the necessary precautions to keep themselves safe on and offline.
T.J. Smith, a spokesman for the Baltimore Police Department, said: “This is concerning because we know a lot of people are online and they’re using online to shop to date etc. And we just need people to be mindful.”
“It’s no different than when you purchase something online whether it be craigslist or eBay you want to have all kinds of securities in place before you meet up with someone.”
Among the advice given is to meet in daylight and somewhere public, make sure you and loved ones know who you’re meeting, and if something doesn’t feel right, be prepared to leave the situation.
Police have also asked for anyone with information to come forward and contact them on 410-396-2444.