Scam at First Sight: Online Dating
February 19, 2024
by
Christian Phillips
Original Publication: February 14, 2023
Updated: February 19, 2024
Romance Scams:
Online dating apps and websites have created numerous opportunities for scammers to create fake profiles and dupe those seeking genuine companionship. Romance scams are a common occurrence, and it is important to be aware of how they work and how to be more vigilant in the future.
What are romance scams?
- Romance scams occur when you unknowingly connect with someone on a dating app or website, and the profile turns out to be fake. During the "getting to know you" phase, the scammer may use phrases such as "this is true love," "you are the love of my life," or "our bond is unbreakable" to lure you into their trap.
Expressing feelings early is common in romance scams, where the goal is establishing a solid connection and creating an unbreakable bond.
A request for money:
Romance scammers are always looking for ways to get money from their victims. They may come up with different excuses, such as a family member being sick, hurt, or in jail, or they may say they need money for a plane ticket, rental car, or phone bill. It's important never to send personal information, gift cards, wire transfers, or use money transfer apps to send money to someone you haven't met face to face. These scammers will use kind and persuasive words to convince you, but don't be deceived by them.
There will always be an excuse:
Scammers often find excuses to avoid meeting in person or conversing via video chat. They hide their identity to carry out their scheme. If they frequently avoid interaction, they might be a romance scammer. Here are a few things they might say: "I don't have a cell phone," "I don't have reliable internet," or "I live too far away to meet in person." It's essential to be cautious of these red flags and to prioritize your safety when interacting with strangers online.
Ask for help:
If you are uncertain whether you are caught up in an online dating scam, don't hesitate to ask a trusted friend or family member for their opinion. It can be challenging to accept that you have been a victim of such a scam, but it's crucial to recognize that it occurs more often than you imagine.
Be mindful of what you share online:
It is essential to exercise caution while sharing personal information online. Remember that the more personal information you share on social media and dating apps, the easier it becomes for scammers to gather information about you. This is how scammers execute their schemes with precision. The collected information can help the scammer relate and establish that unique connection in the early stages of the “romance.”
What to do if you have suspicions:
If you suspect you have been targeted by a romance scam, it is best to cut off all communication with the scammer. One way to confirm your suspicions is to perform a reverse image search. Typically, romance scammers use fake pictures for their dating profiles. You may find information that contradicts the scammer's persona by conducting a reverse image search. Additionally, you can search for the scammer's name and the keyword "scammer" on any search engine to see if others have reported similar issues.
How to report romance scams:
If you are a romance scam victim, file a report to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). ReportFraud.ftc.gov. Also, if payments were sent to the scammer, notify your bank, and inform them of the situation.