‘Run a reverse-image search’ expert warns as four signs give away you’re talking to a money-stealing criminal
CYBERSECURITY experts have warned of online dating scams that can drain your bank.
Dating apps are one of the most common ways that bad actors target victims.
“Navigating the current dating landscape can be perplexing; it’s filled with apps, websites, catfishing, and lurking stalkers,” cybersecurity firm Kaspersky writes in a blog post.
Another thing that dating apps are filled with is romance scammers.
A “romance scammer” is someone who creates a fake online persona on dating apps like Tinder to gain a victim’s affection and trust.
The criminal practice results in a staggering $1.14 billion in losses in 2023, according to the Federal Trade Commission.
HOW DOES IT WORK?
Typically, a romance scammer will reach out to you first to develop an online connection and gain your trust.
They actor then uses that perceived “trust” to manipulate a victim into sending them money, gifts, or cryptocurrency.
“The scammer’s intention is to establish a relationship as quickly as possible, endear himself to the victim, and gain trust,” the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) said in a statement.
SIGNS TO WATCH OUT FOR
There are a number of red flags people can look out for that indicate they’re speaking to a romance scammer, according to Kaspersky.
The first is if their profile appears on mulilpe pages under various names – you can find this out by running a reverse-image search.
Inconsistencies in the daters’ stories and profile details are also signs of a scammer or catfisher.
A sudden, intense expressions of love, or requests for money, most often indicate scammers.
“Scammers may propose marriage and make plans to meet in person, but that will never happen. Eventually, they will ask for money,” the FBI said.
If they refuse to video chat or meet up, this is a sure-fire sign of a romance scammer.
HOW TO STAY SAFE
There are several steps you can take to keep yourself safe from a romance scammer.
First, you should never send money to anyone you have only communicated with online or by phone.
Be careful what information you share or make public as fraudsters can use that to target you.
Last, be vigilant of an individual who attempts to isolate you from friends and family or requests inappropriate photos or financial information as this could later be used to extort you.