Two men have been handed significant prison sentences for orchestrating a series of burglaries across London by exploiting the dating application Grindr.
The Grindr Burglary Method
Rahmat Khan Mohammadi and Mohammed Bilal Hotak used the platform to gain access to their victims' homes. Their method involved convincing individuals to reveal their smartphone passwords under the pretence of wanting to play music. Once they had the code, the perpetrators stole the mobile devices and then used banking apps to transfer money from the victims' accounts.
Crime Spree and Sentencing
The offences took place over several months. Mohammadi targeted 11 individuals between October 2024 and March 2025. His accomplice, Hotak, committed multiple burglaries from October to December 2024. Their crime wave was brought to an end following a police investigation.
At Isleworth Crown Court, Mohammadi received a five-year prison sentence. Hotak was jailed for three and a half years for his role in the scheme.
Judge's Remarks on Vulnerability
In passing sentence, the judge clarified that the victims were not targeted due to hostility towards their sexuality. Instead, the offenders selected them because of a perceived vulnerability and the "easy access" provided by the nature of the dating app. This highlighted how the platform's function of facilitating meetings was manipulated for criminal gain.
The case serves as a stark warning about personal security when meeting individuals online, even on platforms designed for social connection.
