Dating can be tough, but dating apps can introduce a whole new level of terror. A 2019 study revealed that nearly half of online daters found the experience more frustrating than hopeful. While some bad dates are just awkward, others are downright horrifying. Get ready for some chilling tales of robbery, assault, and even murder. Here are the top 10 dating app horror stories that will make you question your next swipe!
10. Ex Sends 1,100 Strangers for Sex or Drugs
Revenge is never pretty, but Matthew Herrick’s story is particularly disturbing. After meeting someone on Grindr, his ex-boyfriend launched a five-month campaign of harassment. Over 1,100 men showed up at Herrick’s home and workplace expecting sex and drugs. The ex created fake profiles with Herrick’s photos and personal information, adding shocking lies, including claims that Herrick was HIV positive and into violent fantasies. The strangers refused to take “no” for an answer, even following Herrick into the bathroom at work. Herrick sued Grindr, questioning their responsibility when users abuse the platform, especially since over 100 reports flagged the fake profiles.
9. The Date Who Loved Himself a Little Too Much
A Reddit user shared a cringe-worthy experience from an OkCupid date. Despite initial attraction, red flags popped up during their dinner conversation. Things went from bad to surreal at the movies when, during the trailers, the man began to masturbate. According to the woman, “He just unzipped his pants and started going at it, and I sat next to him horrified!” He justified his actions by claiming that everyone does it in movie theaters. When she rejected his attempts to have sex, she moved to the other side of the theater to enjoy the film in peace. Sometimes, escaping is the best you can do!
8. Toilet-Loving Tinder Match Threatened Revenge Porn
Rejection can bring out the worst in people, as one woman discovered after matching with Trent John Samuels on Tinder. After a few weeks of messaging, she blocked him on Snapchat because he sent a photo of himself on the toilet with the caption “Poo time.” Unfortunately, she had also sent him intimate photos and videos. Samuels retaliated by threatening to post a screenshot of the video on Instagram. He was charged with revenge porn and faced up to three years in jail. Ultimately, he received a fine and was ordered to compensate the victim. This is a stark reminder to be cautious about what you share online.
7. Men Posing as Women to Rob Their “Dates”
Catfishing is bad enough, but some criminals take it to a dangerous level. In 2020, several reports surfaced of men posing as women on dating apps to lure victims into robberies. These criminals would meet their dates, then physically assault them before stealing their wallets, car keys, and phones. Police in multiple cities warned people to avoid meeting strangers from dating apps. This scam highlights the importance of verifying someone’s identity before meeting in person.
6. Robbed at Gunpoint By His Date and Two Men
Even a background check might not protect you from a determined con artist. One California man learned this the hard way after meeting Shalena Lopez on the dating app Meet Me. Their first date at a casino took a dark turn when Lopez’s accomplices robbed him at gunpoint. After driving Lopez and her friends home, he was held at gunpoint and forced to withdraw money from an ATM. The police were able to recover some of the stolen property, but the experience left the victim traumatized. Be careful who you trust, even on a first date.
5. She Went On a Date With a Serial Rapist
Sexual assault is a terrifying reality for many women in the dating world. Kelly Neagle met Zach Anderson on OkCupid and initially thought he was charming and compatible. However, after drinks at a pub, his demeanor changed drastically. He became aggressive and sexually assaulted her in his car. Neagle later discovered that Anderson was using multiple profiles and was, in fact, a serial rapist named Devin Richard Hartman. Hartman was eventually convicted of rape and sentenced to two life sentences. Neagle’s story is a chilling reminder that appearances can be deceiving, and it’s crucial to trust your instincts.
4. Murdered During The Second Date
Sydney Loofe, a 24-year-old from Nebraska, matched with Bailey Boswell on Tinder and went on a first date. After a seemingly great time, they scheduled a second date. Tragically, Sydney disappeared after sending a Snapchat photo saying she was “ready for my date.” It was later revealed that Boswell and her boyfriend had murdered and dismembered Loofe. Boswell and Trail were charged with first-degree murder. Even a good first date doesn’t guarantee safety. This tragic story emphasizes the need to remain vigilant and inform someone of your whereabouts when meeting someone new.
3. Date Paid to Set Up A Robbery Leading to Death
What started as an innocent bowling date turned into a deadly nightmare for 27-year-old Adam Hilarie. After meeting Hailey Bustos on PlentyOfFish, he invited her over after their date. Bustos returned with three men who robbed Hilarie, then shot him in the head. Police discovered that Bustos had been paid $50 to set up the robbery. The men were arrested and charged with murder. The tragic lesson is never bring a date home after the first meet-up.
2. Attacked and Hospitalized After Breaking It Off
Mary Kay Beckman, a widow, thought she was ready to date again after using Match.com for two months. She met Wade Ridley, but after dating him for just over a week, she broke things off. Ridley, enraged by the rejection, stabbed Beckman ten times and left her for dead. Beckman survived, but Ridley went on to kill another woman he met on Match.com. He was arrested for murder and attempted murder but later committed suicide in prison. Beckman sued Match.com for $10 million. Her story illustrates the dangers of dating and the importance of recognizing red flags early on.
1. He Went On A Date With A Murderous Cannibal
In the most horrifying story of all, London Metropolitan Police officer Gordon Semple met Stefano Brizzi on Grindr. They arranged to meet at Brizzi’s apartment, where Brizzi strangled Semple to death. Inspired by Breaking Bad, Brizzi attempted to dissolve Semple’s body in acid and even tried to eat his flesh. Police found Semple’s remains in various parts of the apartment. Brizzi was sentenced to life in prison but hanged himself two months into his sentence. This story is the ultimate dating app nightmare.
Dating apps can be a minefield of potential dangers. From robbery and assault to murder and cannibalism, these horror stories highlight the importance of caution, vigilance, and trusting your instincts. Always prioritize your safety and be aware of the risks involved in meeting strangers online.
What’s your worst dating app experience? Share your story in the comments below!
