Romance Scams: 12 Warning Signs and How to Protect Yourself

Romance scammers create fake profiles to build trust and then ask for money. They are often patient and convincing — but they follow recognisable patterns.

12 warning signs

1. They profess strong feelings very quickly.
2. Their photos look like a model or stock image.
3. They want to move off the dating site to WhatsApp, Telegram or email immediately.
4. They always have an excuse not to video chat.
5. They say they work abroad — on an oil rig, in the military, or as a doctor overseas.
6. Plans to meet are always cancelled at the last minute.
7. Their story has inconsistencies.
8. They ask personal financial questions.
9. They talk about an investment or crypto opportunity.
10. They have a sudden emergency: hospital bills, customs fees, a stuck inheritance.
11. They ask for gift cards, wire transfers or crypto.
12. They ask you to keep the relationship secret.

Common scammer phrases

• “I’ve never felt this way before.”
• “God brought us together.”
• “My account is frozen, I just need help until Friday.”
• “Let’s talk on Hangouts, I rarely use this app.”

How to check someone

Run a reverse image search on their photos, ask for a live video call, and search their name and phone number. Our guide on how to verify someone online walks you through each step.

What to do if you are targeted

1. Stop sending money and stop contact.
2. Take screenshots of the profile and messages.
3. Report the profile to the dating site.
4. Contact your bank or card provider immediately.
5. Report to your national fraud agency.

Scams are not a sign of foolishness — they are run by professionals. Talking to someone you trust helps.

Safer dating sites

Sites with verification and paid memberships make scams harder (though not impossible). Look for verified badges and use in-app video calls.