In today’s digital age, many Canadians turn to online platforms to find love and companionship. While these platforms offer convenience, they also present opportunities for fraudsters to exploit unsuspecting individuals through romance scams. Understanding these scams and knowing how to protect yourself is crucial.
What Are Romance Scams?
Romance scams involve individuals who create fake profiles on dating apps, social media, or other online platforms to establish relationships with victims. Once trust is built, they manipulate victims into sending money, personal information, or even participating in fraudulent activities. These scams can occur not only on dating sites but also on social media, online games, and professional networking sites. According to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre, romance scams continue to cause significant harm in Canada, with reported losses exceeding $44 million in 2024.
Common Tactics Used by Romance Scammers
Knowing the common warning signs of romance scams is very important for keeping yourself safe while dating online. Scammers are getting smarter with their tactics, but there are still many red flags to watch for. By noticing these warning signs, you can help avoid heartbreak and financial loss.
If something doesn’t feel right about an online conversation, trust your gut. It’s best to be cautious.
Too Good to Be True Profiles
One clear sign of a romance scam is a profile that seems too good to be true. Scammers create fake profiles with flashy photos and interesting bios to grab your attention quickly. However, if you look carefully, you might spot inconsistencies or missing details.
Watch for differences between what their profile says and what they share in conversation. For example, their age, location, or job might not match what they said earlier.
If you see a profile that seems too perfect, try running a reverse image search of their photos. This can reveal whether their pictures have been taken from someone else. Keep in mind that while an attractive profile might be genuine, excessive flattery, grand claims, and missing personal details should act as red flags.
Love Bombing and Isolation
Romance scams often involve a tactic known as “love bombing.” This is when someone showers you with excessive affection, compliments, and attention very early in the relationship. While it can feel flattering, this behaviour is designed to create emotional attachment quickly.
Be cautious of people who say they love you very fast, especially if you haven’t met in person. Scammers often try to rush the relationship and may suggest moving the conversation away from the dating app or social media platform to more private methods, such as text messages or email.
Alongside love bombing, scammers may attempt to isolate you. They may discourage you from talking to friends or family, claiming that others “don’t understand” your relationship. This isolation increases emotional dependence and makes manipulation easier.
By being aware of these tactics, you can stay more alert and protect yourself from emotional manipulation.
Requests for Money or Financial Information
The primary goal of romance scammers is financial gain. Once they believe they have earned your trust, they may invent a situation that requires money or sensitive information. These requests can initially seem reasonable.
Common tactics include:
- Claiming an urgent financial crisis: such as medical bills, legal trouble, or business losses
- Asking for travel costs: claiming they want to meet but cannot afford the trip
- Offering an investment opportunity: promoting a deal that sounds too good to be true and pressures you to act quickly
Be extremely cautious if someone you met online asks you to send money or gift cards. Never share personal information such as your bank account number, credit card details, or Social Insurance Number (SIN) with someone you haven’t met in person and don’t know well.
Be wary of urgent or secretive financial requests. A genuine person will respect your need to think things through. Always speak with a trusted friend, family member, or financial advisor before making decisions under pressure.
Protective Measures
While recognizing red flags is important, taking proactive steps can further reduce your risk when dating online. Simple safety practices can make a significant difference.
Keep in mind that online dating platforms are designed to help people connect, and many users are genuinely seeking meaningful relationships. Using basic safety measures can help you feel more confident as you navigate the online dating world.
Verifying Identities and Online Profiles
Taking steps to verify the identity of someone you meet online is especially important if you haven’t met them in person. Although scammers are becoming more sophisticated, there are still effective ways to spot deception.
Helpful steps include:
- Do thorough research: Search for their name, photos, and details across social media and public sources
- Ask for a video call: While not foolproof, video calls can provide helpful visual cues
- Reverse image search: This can reveal whether profile photos are taken from other sources
If something feels off, trust your instincts and proceed with caution.
Setting Boundaries in Online Relationships
Setting clear boundaries is essential when dating online. Be mindful of how quickly a relationship develops and how much personal information you share early on. Pressure to move too fast can be an early warning sign.
Avoid sharing sensitive information about your finances, full name, or personal documents until you have met in person and discussed the relationship with people you trust. Be cautious of anyone who pushes for this information or attempts to control your finances. A genuine person interested in a healthy relationship will respect your boundaries and understand your need for caution.
Reporting Suspected Romance Scams in Canada
If you believe you’ve encountered a romance scam, report it as soon as possible. Contact your local police, your bank, and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC). Reporting scams helps authorities identify patterns and prevent others from becoming victims.
While online dating is increasingly common in Canada, staying alert is essential. By recognizing the signs of romance scams and taking practical steps to protect yourself, you can pursue meaningful connections while safeguarding your emotional and financial well-being.