How Internet Dating Scams Work

Do you know about internet dating scams? If you spend any time socializing with people on the internet, you should be aware of them. First of all, they are terrible. Not only does the victim end up losing money with most of these scams, but they end up with a broken heart or at the very least a bruised ego. The scams usually take place on internet dating sites. It usually begins when a man or woman start talking to someone they met on one of these sits.

The scammer bides his or her time. They chat or send messages just long enough for the victim to grow attached to the scammer and trust him or her. But at some point, the scammer will start talking about how they've hit on hard times. This is the direction that most internet dating scams go. The scammer will probably make up a sad story about how they will be losing their internet connection soon because they can't pay the bills. Or, they might talk about how a family member needs medical help that they can't afford. The victim, who cares for the scammer, will rush out to try and help in any way they can.

Of course, that usually means forking over some money. Usually the victim wires the money over through Western Union or a similar service. The victim thinks that they are doing something good for their friend, but most of the time after they have sent the money, they never hear back from the scammer. An occasional victim might see a 'thank you' letter and perhaps a few other notes, but that's not usual. Internet dating scams are a pathetic and terrible thing to do to someone, but people do it. If you utilize internet dating services, be aware and watch for 'friends' asking for money, or hinting that they need help. You can avoid becoming a victim: Just don't send money to someone you have never met before.

Want to stay safe from scams and stop scammers dead in their tracks? Visit Known Scammers.com and check out our listings of all types of scams from Internet Dating Scams to Internet Money Scams.

- Jessica A