Bruce Dias 
Online dating apps and websites offer numerous benefits, including the opportunity to meet new people from various parts of the world. However, this advantage can also be a significant drawback. Not everyone on these platforms is genuinely looking to connect; some individuals create accounts with the intent to deceive and exploit others.
To safely navigate the world of online dating, it’s crucial to recognize and avoid scammers. This article will guide you through five major red flags to watch out for when using online dating apps and sites. Additionally, you’ll discover key tips on how to protect yourself from online dating scams, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable experience.
Unverified Profile Information
When you connect with someone new on a dating website, start by verifying the information in their profile. This is crucial because many scammers use vague or false details in their profile bios.
If you find their bio contains unverified, fake, or ambiguous details upon review, you should be careful. Of course, some individuals deliberately provide false information on their accounts because they are shy or embarrassed. However, it’s best to avoid this red flag altogether rather than trying to determine who is intentionally trying to scam you and who is not.
Avoidance of Video Chats
It’s generally preferable to use platforms that offer instant 1 on 1 adult video chat once you’re matched with someone. This allows you to verify if you’re truly conversing with the person on their profile. However, on platforms where asking for a video call immediately might seem too forward, you should request a video call after getting to know them via text.
If the person consistently evades your video chat requests or refuses to turn on their camera when you’re talking, that’s a major red flag. Be wary of individuals who claim to be too busy for video calls or express a strong dislike for them. Scammers often use false or other people’s pictures and details in their profiles, so they avoid video chats to prevent exposure. In such cases, it’s best to cut off contact.
Additionally, if you connect with someone via video chat or text and notice discrepancies between what they say and what they have on their profile, you are likely dealing with a scammer.
Quick Professions of Love
Another major tactic that scammers frequently use on online dating platforms is to quickly profess love or other strong emotions shortly after meeting you. More often than not, these claims will come before they have even met you in person. The idea behind this is to gain your trust and make you more vulnerable to their manipulation.
Therefore, exercise caution if someone is proclaiming their love for you early in your interactions. To be extra safe, don’t give out any personal details until after you’ve met physically a couple of times.
Requests for Money
Once a scammer on an online dating website feels that they have gained your trust, the next thing they’ll do is ask for money. This is a major red flag to watch out for when interacting with people online.
They’ll often come up with elaborate stories about emergencies like a sick relative or hospital bills. However, no matter how “convincing” the story might seem, always remember that there’s a 95% chance you’re about to get scammed. Aside from money, scammers usually request gift cards or cryptocurrencies.
Attempts to Move Communication Off the Platform
Scammers try to move the conversation from the dating site to personal email or messaging apps. This makes it easier for them to manipulate and scam you without the dating site’s oversight.
So, if you ever connect with someone who starts pushing to move communication outside the platform early on, you should be very cautious.
Conclusion
Staying safe in online dating requires constant vigilance and attention to detail. The red flags shared above are key essentials you should pay attention to. However, beyond this, you should also adopt a safety-first approach. Pay attention and move on if you feel something isn’t adding up. Your personal safety should be your foremost priority.
