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Spotting Scams and Cheats When Online
Dating
The real world as well as the virtual world is full of scam
artists, liars, cheaters, stalkers, and plenty of other types
of unsavory characters. Both worlds are also full of honest,
reliable, trustworthy, hard-working individuals as well. One of
the biggest challenges facing those participating in online
dating is learning how to tell the difference. Fortunately
there are ways to know when you are being scammed and there are
things you can do to protect yourself from becoming a
victim.
Trust your instincts
Women especially seem to be in-tune with their gut feelings and
this actually is one of your best defenses. Pay attention to
your instincts because more often than not, they are picking up
on vibes you might not be noticing. When your instincts start
screaming at you to cease communicating with someone, just do
it. You can question your instincts later on, if you want. Or
you can start working your next prospective love match.
Inconsistent stories, vague responses
There is a good chance you are being lied to or scammed when
the person cannot keep his or her facts straight. Learn how to
listen to the words you read and you will learn how to identify
inconsistencies. They usually appear in the basic information
another offers such as profession, age, marital status, hobbies
and interests, even appearance. When someone cannot keep these
basic facts straight, that person likely is lying.
Talk on the phone
For your own safety and protection, always arrange to talk on
the phone before agreeing to meet in person anyone you have met
online. You will get a genuine feel for the person on the other
end by doing so. If this person turns out to be the smoothest
talker you have ever encountered, that should be a red flag.
Also, if the person cannot seem to arrange a convenient time to
talk on the phone, this is a bad sign and you should consider
ending this relationship.
Asking for money
Anytime someone you are communicating with online asks you for
money or for your banking or credit card information or any
other thing having to do with your personal finances, you are
being set up to be scammed. Contrary to what people think, even
the brightest, most worldly individuals have fallen victim to
this type of scam. Even if you are being given the saddest,
most unfortunate or dire story about why the other person needs
your financial assistance, it is most likely a lie. It is in
your best interest to stop all communication immediately, and
this person should be reported, even if doing so makes you feel
uncomfortable.
Keep personal information personal
The more personal information you give out during your online
communications, the more you increase your chances of being
victimized. Don't divulge your hometown, name of employer, last
name, phone number, real email address, home address, nothing.
If another person keeps insisting on this type of information
from you, it's time to move on.
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