OK, we’re going to talk about online dating scams today. In fact, I did some research and discovered these 9 telltale signs of an online dating fraudster you need to avoid.
Most importantly, how to spot the fraudsters (known as catfish). Which, incidentally, I must admit I’d never heard of the term online dating ‘catfish’ until recently.
So, I started to research modern methods of dating to offer women advice on the new rules of 21st-century dating and relationships.
If you’ve never heard of a catfish either then let me put you in the picture. This is VERY important if you’re searching for love through online dating sites, or considering joining one.
Now, I don’t want to scare the living daylights out of you. But I think it’s my duty as an educator and a coach to make you aware of these rotten, dishonest fraudsters so you can be on the lookout.
Forewarned is forearmed, right?
The majority of these predators are based in Africa, mainly in Nigeria and Ghana. They create profiles on dating online sites and social media sites that are VERY deceiving.
They pretend to be white Western-looking guys just looking for love. They often go hunting around the Net and steal other people’s photos from their social media sites.
Then they invent a great profile and story that pulls their victims in when dating online. They are VERY CLEVER and know the power of the emotional energy people put into dating online.
Sadly, sometimes the rational part of the user’s brain is somehow overruled by the need to be loved. This is where vulnerability takes place.
Here are a few tips to help you spot the dating online catfish right away:
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1. Their photo seems too good to be true
If they almost look like a male model, take care. Let’s face it, if they were that good looking would they need to be looking for love with dating online?
Maybe… But, one very clever way to catch them out is to use TinEye graphic app to do a search on the web.
By using this clever little piece of software you can check to see if their photo has been uploaded somewhere else online.
If the photo shows up in other dating online sites then they are NOT genuine. Beware!
2. Looks like a male model (or no photos)
Most dating online sites encourage you to upload a photo (sometimes after you’ve registered). So be warned, if they don’t include a photo this usually means they have something to hide.
3. They have a perfect life as a pilot or a brain surgeon
Again use your common sense. Are most of these professional guys really looking for love by dating online? Maybe, but just be on your guard until you know more about them.
4. False social media accounts with no friends
Most importantly, catfish are very clever at setting up false social media accounts. This way you think you’re actually checking out a genuine person.
In short, the whole thing is a scam, especially if they have very few friends on Facebook. Take a look at this article from CNET “How To Avoid Being Catfished Like These 16 Women on the Same Tinder Date“ which goes into more detail.
5. They try to communicate with you OFF the dating site
Likewise, be especially wary if they try to get you off the dating site to communicate with you by email or phone. Stay safe and follow the dating online site’s policies.
6. The ‘hard luck’ story
You must have heard on the news or in a newspaper about this type of fraud. The fraudsters will invent a hard-luck story to pull at your heartstrings.
For instance, a relative needs urgent medical treatment. Or they’ve had a car accident – then they ask you to give them money to help them out.
QUICK TIP: Visit the reputable online dating sites like eHarmony and Elite Singles for more dating advice.
Check this out… eHarmony is the first service within the online dating industry to use a scientific approach to matching highly compatible singles.
7. Asking you for money
You should NEVER part with any money. If you have any suspicions then contact the National Crime Agency. Or the equivalent authority in your part of the world. This article by the Federal Trade Commission provides tips on what to do if someone asks for money online.
8. Always calling you by a pet name (not your own name)
Pay close attention if they never use your name and call you by a pet name like, ‘Darling‘ or ‘Baby‘. This is a sure sign they’re also contacting other women with the same story.
By always addressing you by a pet name they’re making sure they don’t get the women mixed up. Calling you by the wrong name could alert you something was amiss.
9. They’re looking for desperate women
More importantly, they’re especially clever at targeting very vulnerable women. They do this by looking for clues in their online dating profiles.
Are you coming across as too desperate in your profile? Unfortunately, some women tend to pour out their heartfelt pleas when looking for their soulmate online.
You just have to take a look at some of your friends’ Facebook updates to get what I mean, right?
Therefore, if you think you’re coming across as a bit vulnerable here’s a tip. Ask a friend to take a look at your online dating profile. They may see signs you are coming across as too desperate.
Now, I don’t want to worry you unnecessary about dating online. I just want you to be safe and have fun. But just look out for these ‘red flags’ of the catfish and enjoy the adventure!
You can find lots more tips and advice on staying safe when dating online from the GetSafeOnline.org website.
Always register with a reputable online dating company like eHarmony and follow their safety rules very carefully and you’ll have better chances of finding love again!
