Last Updated on April 20, 2023
How to tell if you are being scammed through online dating
It’s no longer taboo to meet someone online and find love. What was once considered odd is now something many do. Online dating has become the norm for meeting new people and forming romantic connections. However, with the good comes the bad. Dating app users are always at risk of online dating scams. But how would you know if you’re speaking with someone genuine or a scammer? This blog will discuss how to tell if you are being scammed by online dating and the red flags associated with such scams.
How do you know if you are chatting with a scammer?
Identifying an online scammer on dating apps and websites can be difficult because everyone on those platforms seeks to love or have a casual date. That makes it ten times easier for scammers to flirt into unsuspecting victims’ pockets. So, how can you tell if the person showing interest in you is a scammer? Here are some red flags that you might be speaking with an online scammer.
They ask too many personal questions.
We understand that to get to know a person and break the ice, there are going to be personal questions asked about one another. However, scammers can push and take it to another level. If you are being asked for your home address, place of work, bank information, or even your social security number, you should immediately end the conversation and move on.
They try to sell you something or pressure you to take immediate action.
Once a scammer gets their victim comfortable and the conversation flows, they will introduce you to a service or investment opportunity. They might say, “This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” or “I’m only offering this to a handful of people, so you should act fast.” Always take the time to evaluate your options carefully before making a financial or business decision. Any legitimate business or opportunity will always have long-lasting feasibility.
They refuse to talk over the phone or via video chat.
If someone you have met online only wants to keep communication via text and comes up with countless excuses for why they can’t talk or video chat, you should know something is wrong. Scammers will do their best to hide their identities, so they will try to keep their communication online only.
They pressure you for money.
Dating scams can turn into romance scams, meaning a scammer will push for a serious relationship with a victim to manipulate them into giving money. They will then come up with numerous excuses for why they need money. It could be for food, gas, or claim they need financial help for their family member’s medical bills.
Conclusion
Chatting with strangers and meeting new people can be exciting, but always keeping your guard up is essential. Scammers can be clever or persistent, but you don’t have to fall victim to their tactics. You can safeguard your identity and finances by being cautious of the above red flags. Always trust your instincts, and never be afraid to say ‘no.’ Remember, it is better to be safe than sorry. Now it’s time to decide what to do if being scammed. Request help from our team of cyber investigators. Contact our blackmail helpline
