In Australia, the term beat is used to refer to an area frequented by gay men and non-gay-identifying men who have sex with men (MSM) who are cruising for casual sex, and where sexual acts occur. This use of the word parodies the beat walked by a police officer or a prostitute. Most commonly, public toilets, parks, and nightclubs are used as beats, though sometimes suburban car parks become beats after nightfall. Sex researchers have found that a considerable proportion of men who use "beats" are MSMs rather than gay-identifying. This is possibly because, while gay men have a plethora of venues for meeting legitimately, MSMs - who are often closeted - do not risk being observed in (or reported as attending) gay venues. (See also: cottaging.)