Need help dealing with violent or distressing online content? Learn more

Quick Exit

Click here to exit quickly,
browser history won't be cleared.

Meeting online

Whether you are online dating or just keen to meet new people, it’s important to know how to be safe online and what to do if things go wrong.

Facts and figures

  • 44% of research respondents reported experiencing discrimination when using apps.
  • LGBTIQ+ users were most likely to experience harassment through app use (63.4% versus 43.4% non-LGBTIQ+).
  • Harassment is most likely to occur when chatting or sharing photos.
  • Social media platforms such as Instagram, Facebook and Twitter are often used by people on dating apps to verify the identity of the person they are connecting with.

Source: APO Safety, Risk and Wellbeing on Dating Apps: Final Report

These online safety modules are co-created with LGBTIQ+ organisations and are based on community engagement and academic research.

Remember that each app or online service has its own terms of service – you are responsible for following their rules, and they should help you if someone else breaks them. If that doesn't work, eSafety has information and services to help you deal with online abuse.

Always remember to collect evidence if you want to report abuse to an app, online service, eSafety or the police – and save it before blocking the user or deleting the harmful content.

Get support

QLife

All ages. Counselling and referral for people who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, queer and/or intersex. Phone counselling and online chat available every day from 3pm to 12am.

Lifeline

All ages. All issues. Phone counselling and online chat available all day, every day.

More support services

Last updated: 22/02/2023