Internet Dating Scam

There are many legitimate dating websites on the internet.  Unfortunately, all of them are vulnerable to the SCAM ARTIST.  Over the years many victims have been scammed by mates they met on these dating websites.  It is, almost always, difficult to convince the victim that their potential mates scammed them.   The suspect is so smooth and convincing; the victim may send hundreds of thousands of dollars overseas, sell their homes, cash in their life savings and still believe they will have a relationship with the suspect someday.  It will not happen.  You will never meet the suspect or see your money again.

If you meet someone on a dating website, “NEVER” send the person money, especially if they claim to be outside the country.   Sometimes the suspect will convince the victim that they need money to leave their country to come meet the victim.  Sometimes they need money for a business venture in the other country and they promise to pay the victim back.  Whatever the scheme, the victim will never see their money again, once it is sent overseas.

Due to the fact that some people are hesitant to send money outside the country, the suspect may set a person up to accept the money in Canada.  This person will re-direct the victim’s money to them to the overseas country.   In most cases this middle person is also scammed into thinking they are working for a legitimate company or business person.

Rules for NEVER BEING SCAMMED (by someone on a dating website).

• Ignore people who contact you from hundreds of miles away especially if they are outside Canada
• If someone you have never met in person asks for money for “ANY” reason, disassociate with them immediately. Con artists, after getting to know you better, seem to know what angle will work with you to convince you to send them money.   They may not ask for money until they feel they have your full confidence, trust and sometimes love.   Sometimes you’ve already shared your closest secrets with them, and they shared their intimate secrets with you.  If they ask for money at this point in your relationship, it’s a huge “red flag” – RUN!
• If a relationship seems to be moving too fast, slow down. Always use the security email system offered by the dating website and do not share your contact information with them until you get to know them and are confident you are ready to meet in person.  Con artists are generally impatient and try to move ahead quickly in the relationship. Their goal is to get your money as quickly as possible.  They are not able to meet with you because they are many miles away.
• Never allow feeling of flattery, loneliness or sympathy make you do something you do not feel right about doing.
• If you are asked for money by someone you have met online, discuss this relationship with a trusted friend, relative or police. Someone without the emotional bond, you may have with the person, may be able to assess the situation better than you can.