Care and caution urged for online encounters

People using online dating websites are being urged to remain vigilant about their safety and welfare in the wake of an attack in inner Sydney.

On December 29, a 50-year-old Zetland man was allegedly tied up in his home and had his Mercedes-Benz allegedly stolen by Trent Jennings, a 26-year-old patient who absconded from a prison psychiatric ward.

The man had met Jennings via an online gay dating website. 

Jennings has since been apprehended by NSW Police. He was arrested in Byron Bay earlier today.

In the wake of the alleged incident, NSW LGBT health and wellbeing organisation ACON issued a statement urging men to remain vigilant about personal safety and to take extra care when meeting others through online dating websites and smartphone applications.

It listed a range of strategies men can adopt to ensure they remain safe during online encounters.

These include:

•    Consider meeting in a public place

•    Text, e-mail or tell a friend where you are going and check in with them afterwards

•    Consider providing your friend with the name, address and mobile number of the person you plan to meet

•    Leave a note with the address of where you are going or any other details

•    If they come to your place, you could let them think someone else may be staying with you

•    If you go to their place, always trust your instincts and leave immediately if it doesn’t feel right

•    Have your own transport or cab fare

•    Exercise caution before being restrained by a partner you don't know well or have not met before

ACON is urging men who experience online harassment, stalking, violence or any other form of abuse to contact the organisations Lesbian and Gay Anti-Violence Project on 9206 2116 or free call 1800 063 060.

For emergencies, contact the police on 000.