Barrie police have issued a public warning due to a recent sexual assault case which took place in the city and is being investigated by detectives from the crimes against persons unit.
Police are warning the community to be cautious when using “accessible messaging-type platforms which allow you to meet new people,” according to a news release on Thursday afternoon.
“The public must remember that these platforms often advertise that they can help you in expanding your social network, but the reality is they can be very dangerous,” the release stated. "These platforms or apps can be visited by people who may be using them for a purpose that is criminal in nature.”
Police warn people that, before agreeing to meet a new acquaintance in person, “users of the platforms be diligent and find out what they can about the individual that they have met and, if they feel comfortable meeting them, to do so in a public place where others are present should a problem arise.”
