How to Identify a Romance Scammer
How to Identify a Romance Scam. In our current modern society, almost everything feels within reach without having to leave the comforts of your own home; including to find the potential love of your life. Online dating has led to numerous success stories making it an integral part of modern-day relationships where meeting someone the “old-fashioned way” is now considered a rare phenomenon. But what if the love of your life turns out to be the very bane of your existence?
Online dating can be an exciting yet challenging experience. However, one must always approach with caution. While many find genuine connections through dating apps, the prevalence of romance scams continues to exist making it more important to be vigilant. Being aware of the warning signs and risks can serve as a safety net in your journey of finding love.
What Are Romance Scams?
Romance scams are deceptive schemes where scammers create fake profiles to exploit victims who are merely seeking love or companionship. This type of online fraud normally occurs in dating or gaming apps, social media platforms, and chat rooms. Romance scammers typically present themselves as charming individuals and make you feel seen or special only to be manipulated into sharing personal information or sending money.
How to Check if the Person You are Talking to is Real
Now that we are aware of what romance scams are, here are some precautions to take when communicating with someone online:
- Check their profile: Scammers usually use stock photos or stolen images in their profiles. Doing reverse image searches to see if the photos are associated with other names or accounts can help with the verification.
- Do background checks: Something should pop up from a simple Google search of their name. Check if they have a social media presence and if it aligns with what they have on their dating profile.
- Go on video calls: Scammers will often make up excuses to avoid face-to-face interactions.
- Ask specific questions: Engage in conversation about their life that requires detailed answers. They may either change the subject, take a while to respond, or get angry for no apparent reason.
- Keep an eye out for common red flags such as:
- A fast-paced romance where the scammer will develop strong feelings quickly since their goal is to manipulate the victim as quickly as possible before they realise what is happening. Keeping the relationship secret is an isolation tactic scammers use.
- Avoiding video calls or meeting up in person
Inconsistencies in the stories they provide or how they communicate: If they can’t keep their stories straight or if their grammar or the way they message changes from time to time, this is another way to identify a romance scam.
- Asking for personal information or explicit photos which they may later use to blackmail the victim
Asking for financial help whatever the reason may be: is one of the biggest red flags. Never send money to someone you haven’t met in person no matter the status of your relationship because, by the end of the day, they might not be who they say they are.
Trust your instincts: If something feels slightly off, trust your gut. It helps to talk to a family member or friend about what is happening. Sometimes all we need is a fresh set of eyes (and ears) to get us out of our little bubble.
Falling victim to romance scams can happen to anyone regardless of anyone’s intelligence or experience. It is completely valid for victims to feel embarrassed or ashamed. These scammers are skilled at exploiting and manipulating their victims to get what they want. If what was discussed in this article hits too close to home, be wary and cease communication right away before it’s too late. Knowing how to identify a romance scam is important, and facing reality before it’s too late is equally important.
