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Online dating scams

  • What are dating or romance scams?

    While the majority of people on dating websites and apps are looking for love, scammers with fake profiles may also be looking to gain your trust and steal your personal information.

    While these people appear genuine, they may use fake photographs or fake identities to appear more attractive and credible. After a while, they may ask you to send money to help them out of a difficult situation. They may also use the personal details you share to commit fraud in your name.

    While the majority of people on dating websites and apps are looking for love, scammers with fake profiles may also be looking to gain your trust and steal your personal information.

    While these people appear genuine, they may use fake photographs or fake identities to appear more attractive and credible. After a while, they may ask you to send money to help them out of a difficult situation. They may also use the personal details you share to commit fraud in your name.

  • How to spot the signs

    • someone you meet online asks lots of questions about you, but says very little about themselves
    • their profile picture almost looks too good to be true
    • they never keep to their promises to meet up with you in person – something unexpected always crops up
    • out of the blue, they ask you to send money to pay for medical care, buy an airline ticket or help support a family member.
    • someone you meet online asks lots of questions about you, but says very little about themselves
    • their profile picture almost looks too good to be true
    • they never keep to their promises to meet up with you in person – something unexpected always crops up
    • out of the blue, they ask you to send money to pay for medical care, buy an airline ticket or help support a family member.

  • How to stay safe

    • don’t share your full name, date of birth and home address online
    • be suspicious about anyone who wants to commit to a relationship quickly – a common warning sign of a scam
    • if you’re concerned that someone’s profile picture looks too good to be true, try a reverse image search
    • never send money or pass on your bank details to someone you only know online.        
    • don’t share your full name, date of birth and home address online
    • be suspicious about anyone who wants to commit to a relationship quickly – a common warning sign of a scam
    • if you’re concerned that someone’s profile picture looks too good to be true, try a reverse image search
    • never send money or pass on your bank details to someone you only know online.        

Worried that you've been targeted?

If you think you've been the victim of any scam, it's important to call us as soon as possible.

Call 03 456 100 100 (Lines are open 24/7, 365 days a year).