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How to spot and avoid online dating romance scams

Online dating romance scams are unfortunately quite common and can be very convincing, with scammers using fake profiles and emotional manipulation to trick victims into sending money or providing sensitive information. Here are some tips to spot and avoid online dating romance scams:

• Look out for inconsistencies: If someone's profile seems too good to be true, it probably is. Look for inconsistencies in their profile information, such as conflicting details or a lack of detail.
  

• Be wary of quick declarations of love: Scammers may try to rush the relationship, using tactics like professing love quickly, or making grandiose promises.
  

• Check their photos: Scammers often use stolen photos from other people's social media profiles. Use Google image search to see if the same photo appears elsewhere on the internet.
  

• Avoid sharing personal information: Do not share personal information such as your address, phone number, or financial information until you have met the person in person and have established a genuine relationship.
  

• Watch for requests for money: Scammers may ask for money for reasons like medical emergencies, travel expenses, or to help them get out of a difficult situation. Do not send money to someone you have not met in person, no matter how convincing their story may seem.
  

• Use trusted dating sites: Use reputable dating sites that have strict security and verification protocols.
  

• Trust your instincts: If something feels off, trust your instincts and do not continue the relationship.
  

By following these tips, you can help protect yourself from online dating romance scams.

• If you have lost money in an online romance scam get in touch, we could recover your money.