We’ve seen a rise in cybercriminals exploiting dating platforms to deceive users and steal money or personal information. These scams often involve fraudsters creating fake profiles on dating apps and social media to build trust before manipulating victims into sending money, investing in fraudulent schemes (like crypto scams), or revealing sensitive data.
How Dating Scams Work:
π Romance Scams β Scammers pretend to form relationships and fabricate emergencies or investment opportunities to ask for money.
πΈ Crypto & Investment Scams β Scammers convince victims to “invest” in fraudulent cryptocurrency platforms or fake financial opportunities.
π Catfishing β Cybercriminals steal identities or use AI-generated photos to create fake personas and manipulate victims.
How to Stay Safe:
π Watch for Red Flags β Scammers often avoid video calls, rush relationships, and push financial requests.
β Donβt Send Money β No legitimate love interest will ever ask you for financial help or investments.
πΈ Reverse Image Search β Use a reverse image tool to check if profile photos are stolen from elsewhere.
π Protect Your Personal Data β Never share sensitive details like banking info, passwords, or ID documents.
π Verify Investment Opportunities β Be skeptical of anyone urging you to invest in cryptocurrency or online trading platforms.Β
π Sources & Further Reading:
- Federal Trade Commission (FTC): Romance Scams
- FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3): Online Dating Scams
- Homeland Security Investigation: HSI
- Federal Communications Commission
- Interpol: Fraud via dating apps
- Europol: How to not fall for the loverboy scam
- Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC): Romance scam texts
- Action Fraud UK
If you suspect a dating scam, report it and contact the dating platform being used.
Stay safe. #StayCyberFlexed!
