Dating app blackmail: Police hunt man after secret Southern Cross station meeting

A man has allegedly been blackmailed over his use of a popular dating app.

It is believed the man, 29, was messaging various people via the app when a man threatened to disclose his activities to another person unless he received a “substantial amount of cash”.

The victim met the alleged blackmailer at Southern Cross train station on Friday, March 2 about 4.10pm, where he handed him the cash.

Detectives have released the above images the accused man.

He is described as 181cm tall, slim build, in his late 20s with blonde-brown messy hair, and fingernails painted ink-purple.

He was described as was wearing brown cargo pants, a dark hooded top.

The incident prompted a renewed warning from police.

Chief Commissioner Graham Ashton told 3AW Mornings it comes amid a huge surge in thefts, assaults and sexual assaults linked to apps, social media and online trading sites in the past year.

“I think where he met the victim was somewhere where we had very good CCTV cameras, there’s a very good photo of him online,” Mr Ashton said.

“But you’ve got to be careful with any of these apps.”

Click PLAY to hear Ross and John discuss the matter with police

Anyone with any information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential crime report at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au