PHOENIX — The 12News I-Team wants to hear from you!
We're conducting a survey to better understand safety concerns on dating apps for an upcoming report on 12News.
What prompted this survey?
Over the past several years, dating apps have soared in popularity with many people finding love and long-lasting relationships.
In fact, a 2023 Pew Research report found that one in ten partnered adults met through a dating app.
But not everyone finds a fairytale ending.
The 12News I-Team recently released a series called He Made Me Do It. The story is about Helen Simmons, now 21 years old, who said she was forced into a jewelry store robbery in Arizona by a guy she met on a dating app. She told investigators she was abused and trafficked before and after the robbery. It turns out, the man was a convicted felon with a history of domestic violence. Helen missed the red flags.
As 12News investigative journalist Erica Stapleton was reporting on this case, she found it challenging to find data on domestic violence linked to dating apps aside from anecdotal experiences. Furthermore, the I-Team learned that the fine print in many dating apps put the onus for safety on the users.
As we continue our research, we hope to hear from you.
If you're comfortable doing so, please fill out this survey to share your experience. Answers will be seen by the 12News I-Team for research on this story and not publicly shared. We will not contact you if you select "No" to the contact question in the survey.
There are resources if you need help
If you or someone you know needs help, you can call or text 911.
Human Trafficking Tip Line in Arizona: Call 1-877-4AZ-TIPS
National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call 988
Operates 24 hours a day
Online chat option on website
National Human Trafficking Hotline: Call 1-888-373-7888
Operates 24 hours a day
National Domestic Violence Hotline: Call 1-800-799-7233 or text “START” to 88788
Operates 24 hours a day
Online Chat option on website
If you are concerned your Internet history is being monitored, call 800-799-SAFE
National Sexual Assault Hotline: Call 1-800-656-4673
Strong Hearts Native Helpline: 1-844-762-8483
Operates 24 hours a day
Online chat option on website
Dating Abuse/Teen Dating Abuse Hotline: 1-866-331-9474 or Text LOVEIS to 22522
Operates 24 hours a day
If you are concerned your Internet history is being monitored, you can call 1-866-331-9474
Online chat option on website
Arizona Coalition to End Sexual and Domestic Violence: Call 206-279-2980 or 800-782-6400
Hours are Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri 8:30 - 5; Tues 8:30-7
You can call, text, email or chat online
Email is helpline@acesdv.org
Sex Trafficking resources in Arizona
Provides list of services by County and Service Type
Contact STIR online
Phoenix Dream Center: Call 602-346-8716
Provides resources for survivors of human trafficking
Also provides resources for food assistance; housing; addiction
Solari Crisis Response Network: Call 1-800-203-CARE
24-hours a day crisis lines for those experiencing a mental health crisis
Solari operates in Arizona and Oklahoma
211 Arizona Referral Service
Eligibility and Care Services
Homeless Management Information Services
24-hours a day services for individuals affected by sexual assault, domestic violence, or hate crimes
Sexual assault hotline: 480-736-4949 or 866-205-5229
LGBTIQ: 480-736-4925
EMPACT 24-hour Crisis Hotline 480-784-1500 or 855-785-1500
UMOM New Day Centers: Call 602-275-7852
Homeless services for families
Contact 211 to be connected with homeless services
211 Arizona: Call 211
Referral Service
operates 24-hours a day
Information on victim resources, training, hotlines and national programs
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