10 Practical Steps to Stay Safe From Online Romance Scams

We are going to show you some fantastic ways to easily recognize online romance scams and learn how to stay safe and avoid being scammed.

Over the years, we have seen some fantastic advancements in the technology industry. Communication has now become easier than ever before. Using various messaging tools and social media platforms, we have more ways to talk with friends and family. As a result, this also means that we are meeting new people in many different ways. Although this has its benefits, there are drawbacks as well. One of the biggest risks is becoming a victim of online romance scams.

Typically, these individuals—known as romance scammers—stalk the internet pretending to be people they are not. Once they establish communication and gain a certain level of trust, they begin scamming for money. Some even seek emotional companionship if they are lacking it in real life. Regardless of their goal, you must always be cautious online because you could be communicating with someone who is completely different from who they claim to be.

Whether it is a relationship or a friendship that has been developing, you need to protect yourself from romance scams. Below are some effective ways to do so.

1. FACE-TO-FACE WEBCAM CHATS

If you have been talking to someone online for a while, they should have no problem turning on their webcam so you can talk face-to-face. If they avoid the webcam once, wait a few days and ask again. However, if they repeatedly refuse while claiming they are "falling" for you, this strongly suggests they are not who they say they are and may be attempting to scam you.

2. DO ONLINE SEARCHES AND CHECK DATING SCAM SITES

Although it may feel invasive to do a quick Google search, this is one of the best ways to learn more about the person you are talking to. You do not need to hire a private investigator—simply perform a basic search and see what appears. There are many scam-awareness websites that list known online romance scammers. Be sure to check those as well.

3. CHECK THEIR FACEBOOK PAGE

When you first start talking, they may give you a link to their Facebook profile, or you may find it yourself. The problem is that creating a fake Facebook account is easy for scammers. However, creating a genuine timeline is not. Review their posts, tagged photos, and interactions with others. If you notice a blank profile, very recent creation, or a wall filled mostly with app requests, this should be treated as a warning sign.

4. GET HELP TO AVOID ONLINE ROMANCE SCAMS

When we first start flirting with someone and feel an instant connection, we often become emotionally blinded and overlook clear red flags. Try to read your conversations objectively, without emotion. If that is difficult, ask a trusted friend or family member to review the messages and promise to take their advice seriously. They may notice warning signs that you have missed.

5. TRUST YOUR INSTINCTS

Many people ignore their instincts once emotions become involved. However, instincts have guided humans for thousands of years. If something feels off, pay attention to that feeling and investigate further.

6. ALWAYS THINK CRITICALLY ABOUT SCAMMERS

Along with trusting your instincts, apply common sense and critical thinking. Many fake relationships and online romance scams could have been identified much earlier if people questioned inconsistencies. If something does not add up, investigate it instead of dismissing it.

7. USE VERIFIED DATING WEBSITES ONLY

Dating websites are often a hotspot for fake profiles and romance scammers. To combat this, many platforms now offer verification tools for legitimate users. Using verified dating sites helps reduce risk and increases safety.

8. CHECK TAGS ON PHOTOS

Earlier, we mentioned that photos on a social media timeline can indicate authenticity. However, tagging is an important detail. Most people tag friends in their photos. If you see many photos with no tags at all, it could mean the images were stolen and reused for online romance scams.

9. BE MINDFUL OF EXCUSES

When feelings develop, people often believe every excuse they are given. This is where common sense matters. If someone continuously has dramatic reasons for not meeting—such as sudden injuries, family emergencies, or bad luck—be suspicious. Scammers often claim they desperately want to meet but are always prevented by unfortunate events.

10. PAY ATTENTION TO DETAILS

Watch for small inconsistencies. Over time, scammers must remember many false details, which becomes difficult. Even small changes—such as altering a family member's name—can expose lies. Pay attention and verify when possible.

SUMMARY: HOW TO AVOID ONLINE ROMANCE SCAMS

• You can stay safe by remaining vigilant and following these tips.
• Do not accept friend or follow requests from people you do not know.
• Never send money, gift cards, or wire transfers to someone you have never met.
• If someone refuses to meet face-to-face, move on and be grateful you avoided a scam.
• Use ripandscam.com regularly to stay informed about
• the latest romance scammers, their tactics, tricks, stolen photos, pre-written scam letters, fake documents, and more.