There are many dating sites for those who are willing to take their chances online, but not all those who sign up are in search of love--some are simply in search of a quick buck.
A study on ScienceDaily.com reveals that criminal individuals and groups lurk in dating sites for month-long scams with emotionally weak persons. That's why site managers, the police, and even psychologists--need to be more vigilant and sensitive regarding those who have been conned. Professor Monica Whitty of the University of Leicester explains that, aside from monetary loss, victims of such scams “have to deal with the psychological trauma of being both robbed and jilted by a ‘lover’.”
This may paint a scary picture, but some people have indeed been successful of finding their match online. It all comes down to being careful and to being really cautious about trusting someone you’ve just met. If you’re willing to jump into the online dating scene, here are a few things you need to remember:
- Don’t divulge too much information about yourself. You can complete the required form to sign up for a dating site, but you can choose what kind of details to put. Scammers can use what they know about you to lure you in.
- Do background checks. Sometimes, quick searches on Google, Facebook, or even LinkedIn can confirm or deny the existence of a person behind a dating profile.
- Watch out for “Mr. Right.” There are people who post flattering photos and build themselves up as a very kind and successful individual. Chances are, they’re too good to be true.
- Be wary of those who can’t do webcam chats or who refuse to meet up. They may make a lot of excuses as to why you can’t see them face-to-face, but this may be a warning sign that they’re not who they claim to be.
- When your “sweetheart” starts asking for money, cut all ties. If your online partner begs for a huge sum of money because of an “accident” or a “family issue,” then it’s time to hit the brakes on your relationship. Someone who’s really into you won’t even try to pinch a peso from your pocket. If the person still insists you transfer funds to his savings account, call the authorities.
(Photo by Don Hankins via Flickr Creative Commons)
