Scammers and Heartbreak: Protecting Yourself from Romance Fraud

As a matchmaker, I have seen firsthand the devastating effects of dating fraud on individuals and their families. This is a growing problem, not only in Canada but also in the United States. With March being Fraud Prevention Month in Canada, it is more important than ever to raise awareness about this issue.

According to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre, Canadians lost over $64 million to dating fraud in 2021 alone. In the United States, the Federal Trade Commission received over 21,000 reports of romance scams in 2020, resulting in losses of more than $300 million.

These numbers are staggering, and it's not just the financial loss that's at stake. Romance scams can cause emotional distress, loss of trust, and damage to one's self-esteem. One of the most well-known examples of a romance scam is the Tinder Swindler case. This was a Canadian man who used the popular dating app Tinder to defraud over 20 women out of more than $500,000. The case received widespread media attention and shed light on the need for greater awareness and education about the risks of online dating.

So, how can you protect yourself from dating fraud?

Trust your instincts.

If something feels off or too good to be true, it probably is. Trust your instincts and be cautious. If you suspect you are being targeted by a romance scam, don't be afraid to ask for help. Contact your local law enforcement or the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre to report the incident and get assistance. Remember, it's always better to be safe than sorry.

Research potential matches.

Before getting deep with someone you've connected with online, research them on social media or do a Google search to make sure they are who they say they are. Use a reverse image search to see if their profile picture has been used elsewhere online, which could be a sign of a fake profile. If you're still not sure, ask to video chat or talk on the phone to confirm their identity. Look for any red flags such as a lack of social media presence or inconsistencies in their story.

Avoid sharing personal information.

Never give out personal information like your full name, address, phone number, or financial information to anyone you meet online. Scammers can use this information to steal your identity, money, or other assets. Also, be wary of anyone who asks you for money, gifts, or other favors as it could be a sign of a romance scam.

Use reputable dating sites- or use a matchmaker ;)

Stick to reputable dating sites and apps with strong safety and security measures. Look for sites that verify the identity of their users and have robust privacy policies. Also, be wary of free dating sites and apps, as they may be more vulnerable to scammers and fraudsters.

If you want to work with a matchmaker, make sure you ask if they conduct extensive background checks on their clients to ensure safety and privacy. This includes verifying their identity, employment, and criminal record. While it may not be foolproof, this is one step that can help prevent fraud and promote a safer dating experience.

Be wary of grandiose stories and grand gestures of love.

Scammers often try to rush the relationship and make grand gestures of love quickly. Take your time to get to know the person and be wary of anyone who tries to move too fast. A healthy relationship is built on trust, respect, and honesty, not grand gestures and empty promises. Scammers often use grandiose stories to try and gain sympathy or trust. If someone you meet online tells you a story that seems too good to be true, it probably is. Be cautious of anyone who tries to emotionally manipulate you.

There was a significant uptick in online dating fraud during the pandemic. Many predators took advantage of the isolation and vulnerability that hopeful singles felt and either exploited them or falsely depicted themselves in their profiles.

Dating fraud is a serious issue that affects many people in Canada and the United States. This past year, I have noticed that more and more singles are turning to matchmakers not only to find a genuine connection with someone but also to avoid romance fraud or being catfished.

For information on how to avoid romance fraud or to report an instance of romance fraud, visit www.antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca