 |
|||
Online Dating ScamsThe majority of people looking for love online are just like you; they’re nice folk who want to find a partner. But others aren’t so honourable, (a.k.a. married and cheating) and it’s these you need to watch out for.
This isn’t a “scam” in terms of them seeking to defraud you of money. Instead, they’re wasting your time and will mess with your heart and your head if you give them a chance. Watch for inconsistencies in the stories of people you get to know online. If they refuse to post a photo, or reveal much about their home life (after you’ve been corresponding for a while), then you’re right to be suspicious.
"Sweetie! Of course this is really my picture. Would I lie to you?"
Dangers of Online Dating: Avoiding the Pitfalls
Most people are nice, but...
Some scammers are after your money: Be wary of people who befriend you, quickly declare their love, and then proceed to give you a sob story about how poor they are. Thousands of people (often men) wire money overseas, and then never hear from their “lover” again. Don’t fall for this scam.
Beware of false profiles.
These are rampant on free online dating sites where members aren’t properly vetted. Someone puts up a false picture and profile, then directs correspondents to prostitution or porn sites or premium rate phone lines.
Guard your details. Never give out your real name, telephone number, email address, or home address until you know someone really, really well. If you’re incautious, at best you will be deluged with spam. At worst you could have someone show up unwanted on your doorstop, or worse, have some attempt to steal your belongings or even your identity.
Check them out. If you become close to someone online, consider running a background check before meeting them in person. There are numerous sites online that will help you do this inexpensively, so there must be lots of people checking each other out! Trust your gut instincts, and be sensible. You can have fun and find love, and do it safely while avoiding online dating scams.
Want more Dating Safety Tips? Then check out our Dangers of Online Dating, Cyberlover Scam, Emotional Infidelity, How to Catch a Cheater, and Infidelity Signs pages.
|
| ||