How to spot a scammer

Dating and romance scams are very destructive — both financially and emotionally. These scams also cause significant emotional harm, with many victims reporting a break down in relationships with friends and family. With the proliferation of online dating websites, forums and social media channels, these scams are moving increasingly into the online space. Online communication channels allow scammers to operate anonymously from anywhere in the world.

They can be very elaborate hoaxes, sometimes taking years to develop and run by experienced criminal syndicates. The scammer develops a strong connection with the victim before asking for money to help cover costs associated with a supposed illness, injury, family crisis, travel costs or to pursue a business or investment opportunity.

But the profile is fake and the dating scammer uses the person’s trust by playing Always create and use a unique email address different from your personal or​.

Quickly exit this site by pressing the Escape key Escape key not available with JavaScript disabled Leave this site. Smartphones are mini-computers, so take all the same precautions with them as you would with your own computer at home. If you use an online banking app, only use the official app provided by your bank. If in doubt, contact your bank to check. Your operating system provider normally sends these.

Just like on your computer, you can get antivirus tools for your mobile; use a reputable brand. Be wary of clicking on links in a text message or email.