Avoiding Dating Scams
Quick answer
Dating scams often follow recognisable patterns: fast-moving affection, avoidance of video calls or meeting in person, and eventually a request for money. Being aware of these patterns, keeping personal and financial information private early on, and trusting your instincts are the best protection.
Why widowed people are sometimes targeted
Scammers sometimes specifically target widowed people, assuming grief and loneliness might make someone more receptive to fast declarations of affection. Recognising this doesn't mean assuming the worst of everyone — it means staying alert to specific red flags rather than general suspicion of all new connections.
Common scam patterns
Typical warning signs include a profile that seems unusually polished, professing strong feelings very quickly, consistent excuses for avoiding video calls or in-person meetings, and eventually a request for money — often framed as an emergency, travel costs, or a business opportunity. Any one of these alone isn't proof, but several together are worth taking seriously.
Practical tips
- Be cautious of fast, intense declarations of love before you've properly gotten to know someone.
- Ask for a video call early on if someone seems reluctant to meet or show themselves clearly.
- Never send money, regardless of the story, to someone you haven't met and fully trust.
- Report suspicious profiles through the platform's tools rather than just blocking and moving on.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Ignoring a pattern of excuses for not video calling or meeting in person.
- Feeling embarrassed to ask direct questions if something feels inconsistent.
- Sending money "just this once" — this is rarely, if ever, a one-time request in genuine scam situations.
FAQs
Are widowed people specifically targeted by dating scams?
What are the biggest red flags in a dating scam?
Should I ever send money to someone I met online but haven't met in person?
What should I do if I suspect a profile is a scam?
Conclusion
Most connections online are genuine, but knowing the common scam patterns — and never sending money to someone you haven't met — protects you without needing to approach every new connection with suspicion.
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