Classifieds website Locanto features ads requesting sex hook-ups

People using a popular classifieds website to find a plumber or electrician in Melbourne’s east might get more than they bargained for if they stumble on an X-rated twist.

If you’re using classifieds website Locanto you could get more than you bargained for. File photo

A classifieds website purporting to offer trades and services across Melbourne’s east is also offering sex, with more than 1300 notices from people looking to hook-up for casual sex.

Online classifieds website Locanto boasts more than 1300 notices from people seeking to hook-up for casual sex.

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Is this the sex capital of Melbourne?

Of the 1376 notices, more than 1000 list locations across Melbourne’s northern and eastern suburbs.

Ringwood tops the list with 537 sketchy profiles, Box Hill had 189 requests for casual hook-ups, while Doncaster had 134.

In the north Greensborough and Eltham had a combined 136 profiles looking for people keen on some casual fun, Heidelberg had 117, while Mernda had 75 profiles.

And profiles listed locations as far north as Cottles Bridge, even Kinglake.

Victoria Police spokeswoman Cathy Le said many people of all ages and genders had a positive experience on online dating sites and applications.

But she urged those searching for sex online to tread with caution.

“It is important that users understand that the internet isn’t the same as the face-to-face environment,” she said.

“You can’t be sure that the person you are speaking to is who they say they are.”

Ms Le said safety should be everyone’s number one priority.

“If you are considering meeting someone that you have met online ensure that it is in a public location, that someone knows where you are and remember to trust your doubts about people you’re meeting who don’t resemble their pictures or if you have a suspicion that someone is being dishonest,” she said.

“Don’t provide your full name, address and phone number until you have enough information about them to feel safe.”

Ms Le said people should phone police if they felt uncomfortable or thought they might be at risk.