Many people take to the internet to find others with similar interests, and it is often successful, but it also makes people very vulnerable to online dating scams. Dating scams work in many ways and can be easily disguised as “real love.” If you are wondering what to do if scammed online dating, keep reading to find out tips and more.
Definition of online dating scams
Online dating scams are malicious schemes and ploys hosted by cybercriminals to take advantage of unsuspecting victims looking for love and companionship. These scams typically involve scammers disguising their identities behind fake dating and social media profiles of attractive men and women.
They will then reach out to as many people as they can to start a connection. That is when they will love-bomb their victims into what they believe is a serious relationship. This is how they manipulate their victims into sharing personal information, including financial details, and sending them gifts and money.
They will come up with numerous excuses as to why they need money. It can be from a made-up story they concocted about a sick relative whom they need help paying medical bills to everyday necessities such as food, clothes, or a plane ticket to visit their victim, which happens to always fall through because it’s a lie.
It’s hard for victims to find it out of the ordinary because real emotions have already formed. They think the person they care about needs help, so they don’t see any wrong in sending as much money as possible to relieve some stress. It’s when a victim can no longer afford to send money or tries to end the relationship when the romance scam can turn into blackmail and sextortion. This is when the scammer will use their victims’ personal information against them. They will threaten to reveal secrets, images, videos, etc., to the public if their victim does not continue to send money or other goods.
What To Do If Scammed Online Dating?
Romance scams are incredibly emotionally damaging to victims. Their hope for romance was exploited for another’s financial gain. That said, many victims do not know how to handle such a sensitive situation and tend to try to take it on themselves, which isn’t the best idea. Here are some tips to follow if you are a victim trying to overcome this online crime.
1. Stop all communication
Once you have realized you are being scammed, it is crucial to stop all communication with the scammer. Do not respond to their messages or emails. Block their number and remove them from your contact list. Remember that these scammers are professionals and will say anything to convince you to believe them. So, if you continue to engage with them, they will keep victimizing you.
2. Gather Evidence
If you have any conversations or emails with the scammer, take a screenshot or copy them. Save any pictures, documents, or other information shared during the conversations. This evidence will be useful if you report the scammer to the authorities.
3. Report to the Online Dating Site
Notify the online dating site where you met the scammer. Most dating sites have a reporting system where they investigate and take the necessary action against scammers. This will also help to protect other users from falling victim to the same scam.
4. Report to the FTC
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has a website that enables you to report fraudsters and scams. Reporting the fraud to the FTC will guide you on what to do when encountering illegal online activities.
5. Seek Professional Help
If you have lost financially or emotionally to the scammer, it is advisable to seek professional help from a counselor or therapist. Scammers prey on people’s emotions, and it’s not uncommon for them to suffer emotional distress. Seeking help from a professional can help you heal and recover from the trauma.
How to Avoid Scams?
Research your potential date: Before agreeing to meet someone, do your research. Google their name and see what comes up. Check their social media profiles to make sure they seem legitimate. If someone hesitates to share information about themselves, that can be a red flag.
Never send money: No matter how convincing the story may be, never send money to someone you’ve met online. Scammers often claim to need money for emergencies, but it’s important to remember that legitimate people will not consistently ask for money.
Use a video call: If you’re considering meeting someone in person, use a video call first. This can help you verify that the person you’re talking to is who they say they are. It can also be a good way to get to know someone before meeting in person.
Watch out for fake profiles: Scammers often use fake profiles with photos that are not theirs. Look for inconsistencies in their profile information and photos. You can do your research by using revere image websites to show where your love interest’s photos also pop up online.
Trust your gut: Trust your instincts if something doesn’t feel right. Scammers are good at manipulating people, so listening to your inner voice is essential. If someone seems too good to be true, they probably are.
Summary
Online dating can be a thrilling experience and dangerous if you encounter a scammer. Remember, scammers can be convincing and say anything to make you believe in them. If you feel something is wrong, trust your instincts and take the necessary steps to protect yourself.
Stop all communication, gather evidence, report to the online dating site and the FTC, and seek professional help when necessary. If you’re wondering “what to do if scammed through online dating,” we hope you use these steps to handle and minimize the risk of an online dating scam.
