How to Tell If a Dating Profile Is Fake
Updated
A dating profile may be fake if the person won't video chat or meet, quickly moves the conversation off the app, tells a story that doesn't add up, or asks for money, gift cards or crypto. Reverse image search their photos to see if they appear under other names. If you suspect a scam, stop contacting them, report the profile and tell the FTC.
What are the red flags of a fake dating profile?
In a 2019 public service announcement, the FBI listed warning signs of romance scammers. Tinder’s safety tips add more. Look out for someone who:
- asks to move to text, email or another app almost straight away;
- says it was “destiny” or professes strong feelings very fast;
- claims to be overseas, for example working abroad or in the military;
- won’t video chat or meet, or is always “stuck somewhere else”;
- has details that don’t add up, or reappears under a new name with the same profile.
What is the biggest warning sign?
Being asked for money. The FTC says never to send money or gifts to someone you have not met in person. Scammers ask for help with medical bills, travel or visas, ask to be paid in gift cards, or pitch cryptocurrency investments.
How can you check whether the photos are real?
The FBI says most scammers do not use their own photographs, and the FTC recommends a reverse image search of profile pictures. If the same photos appear under a different name, treat the profile as fake. Some apps also offer verification: Bumble suggests asking a match to complete photo verification before you meet.
- Run their photos through Google Lens, Bing or TinEye.
- Ask for a short video call before you invest more time.
- Check that name, age and town match their other public profiles.
What should you do if you think it’s fake?
Stop communicating, block and report the profile in the app, and report the scam to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. You can also report it to the FBI at ic3.gov. If you have already sent money, contact your bank straight away.
Frequently asked questions
How can you tell if a dating profile is fake?
Warning signs include refusing to video chat or meet, moving the conversation off the app quickly, intense feelings very early, a story about being overseas, details that don't add up, and any request for money. A reverse image search can show whether the photos belong to someone else.
What is catfishing?
Catfishing is pretending to be someone else online, usually with stolen photos and a made-up identity. Romance scammers use it to build trust and then ask for money.
Should I send money to someone I met on a dating app?
No. The FTC says never to send money or gifts to someone you have not met in person, including gift cards, wire transfers or cryptocurrency.
Where do I report a fake dating profile?
Block and report it in the app, report the scam to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov, and you can also report it to the FBI at ic3.gov. If you sent money, contact your bank right away.