Online Dating's Dark Side: A 74% Assault Rate Shocks Australia

Online Dating and Sexual Violence: A Growing Pandemic Australia is grappling with a concerning trend: a sharp increase in sexual violence linked to online dating. A recent study by the Australian Institute of Criminology surveyed 10,000 people, revealing that a shocking 74% had experienced sexual violence, either online or offline. This statistic highlights the urgent need for increased awareness and support services. One woman, Sarah Rosenberg, bravely shared her story of assault after connecting with a man on a dating app. "Once I saw him the first time, it didn't stop; we saw each other pretty much every day after that." She described a terrifying escalation of violence, culminating in a brutal attack. Rosenberg's account underscores the vulnerability inherent in online dating and the devastating consequences that can arise. The report emphasizes the importance of caution and awareness when using dating apps. It also highlights the critical need for readily available support services for victims of sexual assault. Organizations like 1800RESPECT provide 24/7 assistance through phone calls, texts, and online resources. By sharing their stories and advocating for change, survivors like Sarah are helping to bring this critical issue to light and foster a safer environment for online daters.