Police in New Westminster, British Columbia, are cautioning residents about the risks associated with meeting strangers from dating apps for casual sexual encounters, as emphasized by Andrew Leaver. He highlights that numerous individuals have fallen victim to deception through fake profiles, leading to problems like extortion or theft. An example from this year specifically involves the LGBTQ+ dating app Grindr, underscoring concerns regarding online safety. Authorities advise residents to initially meet in public settings to ensure their safety and to promptly report any incidents, thereby strengthening community assistance and vigilance.