MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Milwaukee's Common Council issued a warning to the public Wednesday, Jan. 14, after a recent surge in robberies connected to the use of dating apps. 

In a joint statement, council members said the Milwaukee Police Department has seen an uptick in robberies targeting residents through dating apps -- they say generally, a suspect arranges to meet with the victim and then robs them or has other suspects commit the robbery.

They say this type of crime has been seen particularly among the LGBTQ+ community, although anyone can become a victim.

The statement says in part:

"Online dating has become a new norm for many, with more than 40 million people in the country using dating apps and other similar online platforms. Despite the convenience online dating brings, there are always some risks involved, especially when meeting someone for the first time that you met online."

Along with robberies, officials say people involved in online dating should be aware of potential scams involving identity theft, monetary scams and catfishing.

The Milwaukee Police Department Public Information Office has compiled a list of best practices before meeting someone for the first time.

You can find it by clicking here.