Ultimate Guide to Common Online Dating Scams

Online dating has become the most common way to meet new people. Whether through dating apps, social media, or dedicated online dating sites, millions of people worldwide use these platforms to connect. The appeal is clear—finding your perfect match has never been more accessible. However, as online dating grows, so do the risks.

Online dating scams are on the rise, with romance scammers preying on vulnerable individuals looking for love. Young people, in particular, are turning to dating apps as technology evolves. While these platforms provide an exciting way to meet new people, they also open the door to potential dangers. Romance fraud is a real concern, and when emotions are involved, people can become more trusting, making them easy targets for scammers.

The Growing Popularity of Dating Apps

With the rise of online dating apps, more people than ever are turning to digital platforms to find companionship. The convenience of dating sites and social media makes it easy to start talking to new people, regardless of location. The sign-up process is simple, and within minutes, users can connect with potential matches.

However, while these platforms offer exciting opportunities, they also create an environment where scammers encourage trust too quickly. Many fraudsters create fake profiles with stolen profile photos, presenting themselves as attractive, successful, and caring individuals. They know that when emotions are involved, people let their guard down, making it easier to exploit them.

Scammers operate on various dating websites, social platforms, and even messaging apps. They often ask personal questions early in conversations, aiming to gather information they can later use for identity theft or financial fraud. Some will fabricate elaborate sob stories, using emotional manipulation to gain sympathy and eventually request financial assistance.

While dating online can lead to real-life relationships, users must remain cautious. Understanding the warning signs of scams can help prevent financial and emotional damage.

Common Online Dating Scams and How They Work

1. Romance Scams

One of the most well-known scams, romance scams involve a fraudster building an emotional connection with their victim before asking for financial help. These romance scammers often claim to be overseas, in the military, or working in a remote location, making it difficult to meet in person or even have a video call.

Warning signs:

• They declare love unusually quickly.

• They avoid face-to-face interaction, often making excuses about work or travel.

• They eventually request financial support, claiming they need help with medical expenses, travel costs, or other urgent matters.

2. Military Romance Scams

Scammers frequently create fake profiles pretending to be soldiers stationed abroad. These military romance scams prey on victims’ emotions, gaining trust before requesting money for basic necessities or wire transfers to return home.

Warning signs:

• They claim to be on a military mission and unable to communicate regularly.

• They request financial assistance for flights, leave applications, or emergencies.

• Their profile pictures can be found on other websites when using reverse image search.

3. Sextortion and Blackmail Scams

Some scammers trick victims into sharing revealing photos or explicit content. Once they obtain compromising material, they demand money to prevent the images from being shared with social media accounts, friends, or employers.

Warning signs:

• They push for intimate conversations too soon.

• They request explicit images or videos.

• They threaten exposure unless a wire transfer is made.

4. Fake Dating Sites and Subscription Scams

Many fraudulent dating websites exist solely to steal personal details or trick users into signing up for expensive, nearly impossible-to-cancel memberships. Some even employ bots or paid individuals to engage in conversations and encourage ongoing payments.

Warning signs:

• The site asks for financial details immediately after the sign-up process.

• You receive an unusual number of messages from seemingly perfect matches.

• The website lacks legitimate customer support or reviews.

5. Inheritance and Investment Scams (Pig Butchering Scams)

Some scammers lure victims into fake investment opportunities, often related to cryptocurrency. They might convince victims to open a legitimate cryptocurrency account or claim they need help accessing an inheritance scam fund, but in reality, they pocket all the money.

Warning signs:

• They offer financial advice or investment tips too soon.

• They encourage depositing money into unfamiliar platforms.

• They claim they will share wealth after a certain amount is sent.

6. Two-Factor Authentication Scam

Some fraudsters trick victims into giving away security credentials, often using phishing techniques. They might claim they need a verification code to prove identity or access an account.

Warning signs:

• They ask for two-factor authentication codes.

• They request login information for any online accounts.

• They claim to need the code to verify identity on a dating site.

How to Stay Safe While Using Online Dating Apps

While online dating can lead to meaningful connections, it’s essential to stay vigilant. Scammers are skilled at manipulation, often preying on emotions and trust.

Here are key steps to protect yourself and ensure online safety when using dating apps or dating websites.

1. Verify Identities Before Trusting Anyone

• Always request a video chat before becoming emotionally invested. Scammers often avoid face-to-face interaction.

• Use reverse image search on their profile photo to check if it appears elsewhere online.

• Be wary of people who claim to be in remote locations or too busy to meet.

2. Never Share Financial or Personal Information

• Never provide financial details, bank details, or any other sensitive data to someone you met online.

• If someone asks you to send money, no matter the reason, it’s a red flag.

• Avoid sharing contact details or mother’s maiden name, which could be used for identity theft.

3. Be Aware of Emotional Manipulation

• Scammers often create dramatic or tragic stories to gain sympathy—what’s known as the soap opera effect.

• If someone asks for money due to medical expenses, emergencies, or travel costs, refuse and cut contact.

• Take things slowly—don’t rush into a relationship based on messaging alone.

4. Watch for Warning Signs of Scammers

• They avoid video calls and in-person meetings.

• They frequently talk about money struggles and eventually request financial help.

• They use poor grammar or have low-quality profile pictures.

• They claim to be wealthy but need help accessing their money due to an inheritance scam.

• They ask for a wire transfer or payment through untraceable methods.

5. Strengthen Your Digital Security

• Use strong passwords and enable two-factor authentication on your social media accounts and dating profiles.

• Never share a verification code with anyone.

• Avoid linking your dating profile to other online accounts that reveal too much about your digital footprint.

6. Stay Cautious with the Sign-Up Process

• When signing up for a dating website, check for security features like profile verification.

• Avoid fake dating sites that demand excessive personal data during the sign-up process.

• Read the terms carefully—some dating sites make it hard to cancel subscriptions.

7. If Something Feels Off, Stop Contact Immediately

• Trust your instincts—if someone seems suspicious, block and report them.

• Never feel obligated to continue a conversation if you spot red flags.

• Keep an eye on time zone differences—scammers often operate from different countries but pretend to be nearby.

What to Do If You Suspect a Dating Scam?

If you believe you are being targeted by a romance scammer, it’s crucial to act quickly before you lose money or compromise your personal details. Scammers are highly skilled at manipulation, making it important to recognise the warning signs and take the necessary steps to protect yourself.

The first and most important action is to stop all communication immediately. If someone is pressuring you to send money or showing signs of deception, cut off contact without hesitation. Block the scammer on the dating app, social media, and any other platforms where they have reached out. Avoid confronting them directly, as they are often experienced manipulators who will attempt to guilt-trip or pressure you into compliance.

Next, report the profile to the platform where you encountered the scammer. Most online dating apps and dating sites provide options to report suspicious users. If the scammer has reached out via social media, report their profile there as well. By flagging the account, you help prevent them from targeting others.

If you’ve shared any financial details, such as your bank account information or credit card details, contact your bank immediately. Secure your accounts by changing passwords and enabling extra security measures. If you have mistakenly provided a verification code, set up two-factor authentication to prevent unauthorised access. The sooner you take these steps, the lower the risk of financial fraud.

It’s also important to check for signs of identity theft. If you’ve given away too much personal information, monitor your accounts for suspicious activity. Unexpected phone bills, unexplained transactions, or unfamiliar online accounts in your name could be indicators that your identity is being misused. If you suspect fraud, consider using an identity protection service to secure your personal data.

Get Professional Help from a Private Investigator

For those who need further assistance, professional help is available. If you have doubts about someone you’ve met online or believe you are being scammed, private investigators can uncover the truth. P.E.L Consultancy Services specialises in online dating investigations, identifying fake profiles, and gathering evidence to confirm suspicions. With expertise in digital forensics and surveillance, we can help provide the clarity you need.

Contact P.E.L Consultancy Services for a discreet and professional investigation today.