5 Red Flags to Spot Online Dating Scams and How to Protect Yourself
As if finding love isn’t hard enough, we now have to avoid the scammers and fraudsters that are plaguing the dating landscape. Here are 5 red flags to look out for while navigating the online dating landscape:
1. Too Good to Be True
Red Flag: It’s a tale as old as time—something (or someone) appears to be the picture of perfection. The profile you’ve stumbled upon could belong to a model, and their interests align perfectly with yours. While it’s possible you’ve just found your ideal match, it’s also a common tactic used by scammers. They craft profiles that are irresistibly attractive, using photos sourced from the internet and creating personas that are too appealing to ignore.
How to Avoid: Start with a reverse image search of their profile pictures to see if they’re used elsewhere on the internet—a telltale sign of a fake profile. Engage in conversations that require personal anecdotes and opinions, not just facts that can be easily fabricated. Be wary of profiles that seem meticulously curated to appeal to a wide audience.
2. Rushing into Things
Red Flag: Declarations of love within days? Plans for a future together after just a few messages? Scammers play on emotional triggers to get you deeply invested quickly. This tactic is designed to cloud judgment and encourage impulsive decisions, such as sending money or personal information sooner than you normally would.
How to Avoid: Pace the relationship as you would if you had met in person. Real connections take time to develop. Be cautious if they seem to be in a hurry to escalate the relationship without getting to know you. Setting boundaries for the pace at which your relationship progresses can help safeguard against manipulation.
3. Avoiding Video Calls or Meetings
Red Flag: Although not entirely foolproof, a video call certainly cuts through a lot of the nonsense. If your prospective match is evasive about joining for a video call, then it’s highly likely that they are not who they say they are.
How to Avoid: Propose a video call early on. If they are genuine, they’ll be keen to see you too. Understand that occasional scheduling conflicts are normal, but consistent avoidance is not. This not only confirms their identity but also helps build a stronger connection.
4. Requests for Money
Red Flag: Perhaps the most straightforward warning sign is a request for money. Scammers may weave elaborate tales of emergencies, unexpected fees, or even present it as an opportunity for investment with the promise of quick returns. Their stories are designed to tug at your heartstrings or appeal to your desire to help. I would also add that scammers are pretty adept at figuring out the wealthy, naive, or lonely and target accordingly.
How to Avoid: Implement a firm rule for yourself not to send money to anyone you have not met in person. If they ask for financial help, respond with empathy but firmness about your policy on not lending money. This stance can deter scammers from targeting you further. Additionally, as a preventative measure, be careful how much you reveal about yourself as it could be used against you.
5. Vague or Inconsistent Information
Red Flag: Inconsistencies in their story or reluctance to share details about their life, work, or family can indicate they’re spinning a narrative as they go. Scammers might mix up details or avoid answering questions directly because they’re juggling multiple personas or simply can’t keep track of their lies.
How to Avoid: Keep an eye on the details from the start. Ask follow-up questions and see if the answers remain consistent. Consider writing down or screenshotting details they share to cross-reference in future conversations. Inconsistencies, especially about significant life details, are a strong indicator that you may be dealing with a scammer.
Final Thoughts
Navigating the world of online dating requires a balance of openness and skepticism. By being aware of these red flags and knowing how to avoid them, you can protect yourself from scams while remaining open to genuine connections. Always prioritize your safety and well-being, and remember, if it doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t. Trust your instincts and proceed with caution, allowing yourself the chance to find love without falling victim to deceit.
Good luck out there—it’s a jungle, but when you find the right one, it’s worth it!