What Are Internet Dating Scams?
If you do any kind of chatting or socializing online, you should be aware of some of the internet dating scams out there. First of all, they are terrible. Not only does the victim end up losing money with most of these scams, but they end up with a broken heart or at the very least a bruised ego. The scams usually take place on internet dating sites. It usually begins when a man or woman start talking to someone they met on one of these sits.
Most of the time, they communicate back and forth long enough for the victim to develop some sort of feelings for the scammer. Internet dating scams usually follow this pattern: Once the scammer has gained the victim’s trust, he or she will begin talking about financial troubles. They will usually make up some story about how they or a family member needs an expensive operation, or they might say that they won’t be on the internet much longer because they can’t afford the bills. Having grown to trust and care for the scammer, the victim usually does whatever they can do to help.
Of course, that usually means forking over some money. Usually the victim wires the money over through Western Union or a similar service. Although the victim thinks they are helping out a friend in need, it isn’t long before they realize that they’ve been scammed. Most of the time they never hear back from the scammer again. Sometimes the scammer will send a letter or two of thanks, perhaps, but more often than not the victim won’t even see this much. Internet dating scams are a disgusting and terrible to pull on someone, but they are still widespread. So if you’re using an internet dating service, be careful. Be wary of any ‘friends’ who ask for money or drop heavy hints about needing your help. The best thing is to simply never send money to anyone you haven’t met. Don’t become a victim.
Want to stay safe from scams and stop scammers dead in their tracks? Visit Known Scammers.com and check out our listings of all types of scams from Internet Dating Scams to Internet Email Scams.
- Jessica A
