Online dating has helped millions to meet new people, make great matches and introduce them to long term partners and spouses. But along with the success stories, you are bound to have heard about various scams and tricks which people can fall victim to while looking for love online.
Internet dating involves high hopes, strong emotions, and vulnerability which unscrupulous people can take advantage of for monetary gain or access to your personal data. There is no doubt that although online dating is a great way to meet a new partner, you need to be aware of the warning signs to look for when messaging people online.
The majority of people on dating sites and completely genuine in their search for love, but to make sure you remain protected, we have pulled together a list of the warning signs to look for when you begin talking to a match online.
Beware of too many Glamorous Staged Shots
If every photo, phrase, and approach seems a little too polished and luxurious, approach with caution. Many scammers steal photos from influencers, actors, and models to create a character and fake profile. A Google reverse image search will help you to identify original sources for photos.
You can also input their name and any phrases they use repeatedly to see if they come up on any warning posts about dating scammers.
Be Suspicious About Job Roles that Mean They Can’t Meet in Person
Although plenty of people who are overseas or working away from home long-term are genuine – it also provides scammers with the perfect excuse for why they can’t meet up with you face to face. If you are suspicious, you can do a little research about their role, their claimed location, and ask a few casual questions to test their knowledge about their supposed profession.
Don’t Share Your Personal Documents and Information
Scammers will come up with a hundred and one novel reasons for why they need access to your personal information and bank account details. But this is always a huge red flag! Never allow yourself to be pressured or emotionally extorted into revealing this information, you should also be very wary if they start mentioning the phrases “small loan”, or “investment opportunity!”
Question Why They Won’t Video Chat or Arrange a Meet Up in Person
It is perfectly possible that an emergency or illness may have occurred when you first arranged to meet or have a video call. But if they keep coming up with excuse after excuse about why you can’t meet, then you should start to question whether they actually have any intention of showing their face to you at all.
Keep Friends and Family in the Loop
Online dating scammers may encourage you to keep your relationship private or try to make you suspicious about the concerns of friends and family. Someone who is isolated and doesn’t feel like they can ask others for advice is going to be much easier to manipulate. Keep an eye out for this behaviour and discuss any worrying messages with those who care about you.
Online dating can be a wonderful way to meet someone new, but you need to make sure to keep an eye out for red flags and non-negotiables. If you spot any red flags, it is always safer to move on to another match who is more open, believable, and available for video calls or face to face meetings.
