February is the month of love, and loneliness can feel magnified when it seems like everyone around you has a romantic partner. Be careful not to let these emotions make you vulnerable to scams. If you are looking for a love connection, search safely by following these tips.

5 Tips to Avoid Scammers on Dating Sites

Learn about scammers and what they look for in dating sites. And then be sure to let them know you are too smart to scam.

  1. Do Not Flaunt Your Money: You should be able to find love at any age. Take caution as you create a dating profile. If you make it clear that you have a lot of money, you may attract the wrong crowd with ulterior motives.
  2. Beware of the Early “I Love You”: If someone clings onto you right away and comes on too strong, take a step back. Why are they saying I love you before they know you? It’s wise to question that.
  3. Confirm Their Identity: Try a reverse image search on Google to see if the picture they post comes up with the same name on multiple platforms. Cross-reference them on other social media sites with recent posts and comments from friends. Ask a loved one to check out the profile to see if they think it is legitimate.
  4. Meet In-Person in a Safe Place: A scammer usually hides behind a computer, never meeting the person they rob. Meet potential love interests in person so that you can further confirm they are who they say they are. Ask tough questions, referencing talking to an adult son or daughter about them, so they know they have the potential to get caught.
  5. Keep Finances Separate: Have a hard and fast rule to keep finances separate from the beginning. Pay for dinner here and there, but if someone needs to pay rent or a monthly grocery bill, wish them luck finding a job and paying their own bills.

Scammers can get your credit card information and quickly charge tens of thousands worth of credit card bills. They share your information with friends and even convince you to tap into your retirement accounts. Do not be a victim. Always ask for help from a trusted friend or family member when you feel suspicious. And do not be afraid to call the police.

Senior Safe and Sound is dedicated to protecting seniors from scams. Share this article with a senior in your life to be sure they are watchful of scammers and thieves. For additional information and support, contact us by email at info@SeniorSafeAndSound.org or call 858-480-7551.

This information is intended to inform the public at large about this important issue. It is not intended to serve as legal or medical advice.