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    2 min read 6 stepsApril 2, 2026Verified April 2026

    How to Spot and Avoid Romance Scams

    Protect yourself from online dating scams that steal hearts and money.

    In this guide (6 steps):

    1. 1.How romance scams work
    2. 2.Red flags
    3. 3.The money request
    4. 4.How to protect yourself
    5. 5.If you've been scammed
    6. 6.Statistics
    1

    How romance scams work

    ~15s
    Scammers create fake profiles on dating sites and social media. They build a relationship over weeks or months, then ask for money — for an emergency, travel to visit you, or a business opportunity. It's always a lie.
    2

    Red flags

    ~15s
    They can't video chat (always an excuse). They profess love very quickly. They claim to be overseas (military, oil rig, doctor abroad). Their photos look like a model. They always have a reason they can't meet in person.
    3

    The money request

    ~15s
    Eventually they ask for money: wire transfer, gift cards, cryptocurrency, or cash app. They may create a fake emergency. Once you send money, they ask for more. They never stop asking.
    4

    How to protect yourself

    ~15s
    Never send money to someone you haven't met in person. Reverse-image search their photos (drag the image to Google Images). Video chat early in the relationship. Tell friends and family about new online relationships.
    5

    If you've been scammed

    ~15s
    Don't be embarrassed — these scammers are sophisticated professionals. Report to the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov. Report to the dating site. Contact your bank about recovering funds. File a report at ic3.gov.
    6

    Statistics

    ~15s
    Romance scams cost Americans over $1.3 billion annually. Average loss: over $10,000. Victims are most often people age 55+. These are professional criminals, often operating from overseas call centers.

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    Official Resources

    FTC Consumer ProtectionCISA — Cybersecurity TipsAARP Fraud Watch Network

    Sources used to create and verify this guide. View all sources →

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    How to Spot and Avoid Romance Scams — Step-by-Step Guide | TekSure