Online Dating Romance Scams
Online dating scams typically originate in West African countries such as Nigeria, Ghana and Senegal. For that reason, they are often called Nigerian Romance Scams. These scams take advantage of people who are on online dating sites looking for love and/or companionship. The scams are always about money and can often strip people of thousands of dollars by preying on those that are registered with online dating.
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Red Flags
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Online dating scammers often give clues that can help to identify them as scam artists. Profiles are generalized, for example, instead of a specific age, the profile lists 20 to 35 years old. They are typically childless and looking for a long-term relationship. The scammer will often tell you that he is having a hard time cashing paychecks and ask you to cash them for him, or they that he is willing to relocate for you. Emails from scammers often come from outside accounts such as hotmail, and not from within the dating site itself.
Prostitute Scams
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Prostitutes will sometimes register on online dating sites to look for new clients. They introduce themselves to and endear themselves to someone on the site. Once a relationship begins to form, they let the person know who and what they are and that they are available for a price. In most cases, the ads placed by these prostitutes are explicit enough to realize what they are looking for from the site.
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Postal Scam
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The scammer takes interest in someone from the online dating site. Once they have forged a relationship, they make up a story that ends in how hard it has been for them to cash a check, or get money to a relative. They may ask if you can help them by cashing a check. Typically, the check has been stolen or is a fake. Once you cash it and send the money, the scammer disappears. Your bank will then return the check and you will be responsible for any charges to your account.
Travel Scam
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Another scam in an attempt to visit the states. The scammer will tell you how great you are and how they want to visit you in the states, but cannot afford it. You are convinced to send them ticket money in the mail. Then you no longer hear from them.
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References
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