The Internet is a great place to find love, but it can also be full of predators. Losses to dating scams have topped $300 million in 2020 alone. These scams take many forms, but there are a few that you may be able to spot.
In this article, matchmaking company Luma Luxury Matchmaking shares five types of dating scams that people should know to avoid when looking for love.
1. The Romance Scam
This scam is viral and often perpetrated by someone who has created a fake online profile. That will start a relationship with you, often professing their love for you very quickly. Then, they will ask for money, often for something very minor like airline tickets or medical expenses.
Once you send them the money, they disappear, and you are out of pocket with no chance of getting your money back.
- How to avoid them: Only ever send money to someone you have met in person and never agree to send money for any ticket or travel expenses without seeing proof that the tickets exist.
2. Military Romance Scams
This scam is perpetrated by someone who poses as a U.S. military member stationed overseas. They will start a relationship with you and often promise to come home soon to be with you. Then, they will ask for money for various reasons like medical expenses or travel costs.
They disappear once you send them the money, and you are out of pocket.
- How to avoid them: Do not send money to anyone you have not met in person and be very suspicious of anyone who claims to be in the military and stationed overseas.
3. Intimate Activity Scams
This scam is perpetrated by someone who asks you to participate in intimate activities like webcamming or sending nude photos. They may even promise to send you money in return.
However, after you send them the photos or videos, they will blackmail you for more money, or else they will release them to your friends and family.
- How to avoid them: Do not participate in any intimate activities with someone you have not met in person and never send nude photos or videos.
4. The Craigslist Dating Scam
This scam is widespread and often perpetrated by someone who has created a fake online profile. They will post an ad on Craigslist looking for a relationship or sexual encounter. When you respond, they will ask you to send them money for various reasons like airline tickets or medical expenses.
Once you send them the money, they disappear, and you are out of pocket with no chance of getting your money back.
- How to avoid them: There’s also a typical phishing scam in Craiglist where people looking for partners are asked to visit a “verification site.” Those websites are often phishing scams asking you to provide personal or sensitive information. Beware of these external sites, even if they look genuine.
Common Signs of a Romance Scammer
If you are trying to avoid getting scammed, it is essential to spot the signs of a scammer. Some common signs include:
- Ties to move the relationship too fast
- Asks for money for any reason
- Has a fake or sketchy online profile
- Is always unavailable when you need them
- Always have an excuse whenever you ask to meet in person
If you notice any of these signs, it is best to end the relationship regardless of how painful it might be on your part. It’s best to be cautious than end up getting hurt and scammed.
Be Vigilant and Cautious
Dating scams can take many different forms, and these are just a few that you should be aware of. Always do your research before meeting someone, and never send money to anyone you have only just met online.
Take things slowly and only rely on reputable dating sites or matchmaking companies when it comes to finding true love.
Luma Luxury Matchmaking is a trusted matchmaking company that helps clients find their perfect match safely. Contact our matchmakers today to know more about the services we offer.
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