Singapore: Online Grooming Risks Rise on Leomatch, Telegram – What Parents Need to Know

A 25-year-old Singaporean man was sentenced to 11 years in jail and 10 strokes of the cane in February 2026 for statutory rape, sexual grooming of a minor and related offenses, after using a Telegram-based dating platform to target girls under the age of 16. The man, identified only as James due to a court-ordered gag order protecting the victims’ identities, exploited the platform Leomatch to pose as a student and connect with vulnerable schoolgirls.

Prosecutors detailed how James, who worked various jobs including as a clerk, swimming teacher, and Luge operator, engaged in predatory behavior over a six-month period beginning in August 2023. He lured two young girls into sexual activity.

The case highlights growing concerns about the utilize of online platforms, particularly those lacking robust age verification, to facilitate the grooming and sexual exploitation of minors. Leomatch, accessible through Telegram, allows users to input their name, age, and location without verification. According to Telegram data, the platform has over 14 million monthly users. Checks by The Straits Times revealed that dozens of individuals under the age of 18 have profiles on the platform.

A separate case, involving Yong Ming Quan, came to light in February 2026 alongside James’ sentencing. Yong, 31, was sentenced to one year in jail for attempting to sexually groom a 14-year-old boy he met on the same platform, offering a “friends with benefits” arrangement. Yong had been diagnosed with a paedophilic disorder and a history of voyeuristic disorder.

While dating apps in Singapore are legally restricted to individuals 18 and older, Leomatch operates without such barriers. The platform’s algorithm matches users based on self-reported ages, but does not require proof of age. James reportedly misrepresented his age as 15.

Criminal lawyer Josephus Tan of Invictus Law explained that initiating sexually explicit conversations, such as asking “What are you wearing to sleep?” can be considered sexual grooming – building a trusting relationship with a minor for the purpose of sexual exploitation. Tan noted a 10 to 20 percent increase in such cases in recent years.

Counsellor Jason Woolley at Counselling Perspective identified indicators of grooming as requests for secrecy, attempts to establish a “special friend” dynamic, and pressure to meet in person. Associate lawyer Noelle Teoh of Gloria James-Civetta & Co. Stated that Leomatch is frequently mentioned by clients, with reports of individuals meeting sexual partners – including minors – through the platform. Teoh emphasized that the law criminalizes grooming and communicating with a child under 16 with the intent to commit a sexual offense, and that even online interactions alone can lead to criminal charges.

Experts suggest that children and teenagers are drawn to platforms like Leomatch seeking connection and attention, particularly if they feel socially isolated. Woolley explained that their ability to detect manipulation is still developing, making them vulnerable to predators. Counsellor Vanessa Lazcano highlighted the emotional harm that can result from online rejection or “ghosting.”

Authorities, including the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA), have implemented measures to restrict access to age-inappropriate apps. Dating apps like Coffee Meets Bagel have introduced identity verification using Singpass, a national digital identity system. However, Leomatch, operating within the Telegram messaging app, presents a unique challenge.

Teoh noted that while Leomatch itself is not illegal, there is currently no specific legislation requiring age verification on platforms operating within messaging apps like Telegram. In 2025, the Singapore government indicated it was in discussions with the Australian government following Australia’s passage of a law banning children under 16 from accessing social media, to determine its next steps regarding the protection of children and teenagers online.

The case of a 19-year-old convicted in February of penetrating an underage person further illustrates the issue. He had met one of his victims through Leomatch and initiated a sexual relationship after a week of online communication.

Woolley stressed the importance of educating young people about the signs of grooming, which often begins with friendliness and emotional support, rather than immediate sexual requests. Lazcano emphasized the necessitate for open communication between parents and children about the risks associated with online platforms and establishing a safe environment for children to report concerns.

In one instance, a father intervened when his son was targeted by a predator, arranging a meeting at their home and alerting the police, leading to the predator’s arrest.