THE ONLINE GROOMER: The secret lives of gay teens being targeted on dating apps

Where are the safe spaces for young gay teens to connect when community is non-existent at school? Why not the internet? Why not a dating app? Today, we’re highlighting the fact that predators search for minors on dating apps to exploit, coerce, and groom, especially in the gay community. These teens are often blackmailed to remain silent and live these secret lives of pain. The systems that are supposed to protect often don’t take these predators seriously or sweep this exploitation under the rug. In the end, the survivor is further harmed and silenced. Lisa welcomes Albert Flores a survivor, advocate, and storyteller passionate about creating safer spaces for vulnerable communities. Albert shares how they joined a dating app geared toward the LGBTQ community at 14 in the hopes of connecting with other local gay teens. Unfortunately, he found that local adult men sought him out instead. He was groomed by multiple men, even the older brother of a famous influencer family that created content geared toward children. When incidents of exploitation were made public, Albert’s school administration, local police force, friends, and even the app safety protocols woefully mishandled these situations. Albert has been on a journey processing the effects of their trauma and PTSD. Now, Albert uses his voice to raise awareness about online safety, survivor support, and mental health. What happened to Albert should have never been possible. We’re grateful for their courage to tell their story. This episode is all about education, prevention, and a call to action to hold these institutions and companies accountable so that teens can connect safely on the internet.  "From now on, we will speak up for ourselves and say no. " Just a heads up: This episode contains discussions of child sexual abuse, nonconsensual distribution of child sexual abuse materials, grooming and eating disorders due to PTSD. Some may find it upsetting. We encourage you to take care of yourself.  Follow Albert @albertflrz on Instagram.  Follow Lisa Phillips ⁠@iamlisaphillips⁠ on Instagram. From Now On is produced by LA PHILLIPS MEDIA. Listen and follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube. Have a story to share with us? Email us at [email protected]. Join our movement and keep up to date on all things From Now On by following us @fromnowonpod on all socials. If today’s conversation resonated with you and you are seeking more support in your own healing journey, here are some resources below: If you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted, help is available. Call 800.656.HOPE (4673) If you or someone you know is being trafficked, contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline. Text 233733 (befree). PAVE is a 501(c)(3) non-profit creating a world free from sexual violence and building communities to support survivors. Speak Out, Act, Reclaim (SOAR) is dedicated to providing a safe and empowering space for survivors of sex trafficking to reclaim their stories and stand up for themselves and each other.