Online dating is now a very common way for Americans to meet. However, it is also a common way people get hurt, lose money, or feel sad. This is why it is important to know what to watch out for. It can save you a lot of trouble down the line!
Common Red Flags to Watch Out For In Online Dating
Online dating is not a small thing anymore. According to Pew Research, 53% of Americans under 30 have used a dating app. Because so many people use them, the risks have increased in number as well.
The FBI says that romance scams cost Americans $652 million in 2023. This is one of the biggest types of crime in the country. And that number is only for the cases people actually reported.
Red Flag #1: They Move Very Fast with Feelings
If someone says they love you after only a few days, or says you are “the one” after one week of texting, they are not being romantic. They might be following a plan to trick you.
This is called love bombing. It makes you depend on them emotionally very quickly before you can even think clearly. A real relationship grows slowly. So, if things feel too fast, trust your gut feeling.
Red Flag #2: They Never Video Call or Agree to Meet
“My camera is broken.” “I am working in another country.” “I am traveling for a job.”
Imagine someone has been talking to you for weeks, but keeps making excuses not to show their face or meet you. That is a big warning sign right there.
Scammers do not want you to see them. To be safe, ask for a video call before you get too invested. Do this in the first week or two. If they say no, you should be careful.
Red Flag #3: They Keep Changing Their Story
In this era of online dating, it is important to listen to the details. If a person says different things about their job, where they live, or their life, something is wrong.
Here are some common things to watch for:
- They say they live near you but are always “away for work.”
- Their photos look like those of professional models, but the account is very new.
- They use different names or ages on different apps.
You can use Google Images to check their photo. Scammers often steal photos from other people.
Red Flag #4: They Ask for Money
This is probably the biggest and most obvious red flag. If someone you have never met asks for money, it is a scam. Do not fall for how sad or real their story sounds.
Here are some common stories used in the US:
- A sudden medical emergency, and they have no insurance.
- A plane ticket so they can finally come to see you.
- A chance to invest in cryptocurrency (digital money).
The FTC found that cryptocurrency is the most common way scammers take money. A real person who likes you does not need your money before you have even met.
Red Flag #5: They Try To Keep You Alone
There are two parts to this. First, it is strange if the person seems to have no friends, no family, and no life outside of talking to you. Scammers do this on purpose, so you focus only on them.
Second, be careful if they get upset when you tell your friends or family about them. People who are honest do not mind if other people know about the relationship.
Conclusion
Millions of Americans have found real partners through online dating apps. But the same tools that help people meet also attract people who want to trick or use you.
Just remember that someone who is a good person will respect your speed and will not pressure you to move faster.
