As summer heats up, so do the chances of meeting someone new. However, with the rise of online dating and social media, it’s easier than ever for scammers to take advantage of people looking for love. According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), imposter scams remain the number one reported fraud type for the ninth consecutive year, with consumer losses at a staggering $3.5 billion.

Red Flags to Watch For

Scammers often use tactics like love bombing, where they quickly create an intense psychological bond with their victims, to manipulate them into sending money or sharing personal information. They may also make excuses for not meeting in person or introduce a low-key financial pitch. To protect yourself, it’s essential to verify someone’s identity and be cautious of people who insist on moving the conversation away from the original dating app or social media platform.

One way to verify someone’s identity is to do a reverse image search of their profile pictures. Scammers often use photos from social media influencers or stock images, so if the search reveals that the photo is not unique to the person, it’s likely a scam. You can also audit their LinkedIn profile to see if their career timeline matches what they’ve told you.

A quick reverse phone lookup can also help you verify someone’s identity. By putting their phone number into a reverse phone lookup platform, you can see if the number is attached to a different person or location. If it is, it’s a clear sign that the person is not who they claim to be.

While it may seem cynical to verify the identity of someone you’ve met online, it’s essential to prioritize your personal safety. By being cautious and doing your research, you can protect yourself from scammers and ensure a safe and enjoyable online dating experience.

Original reporting: El Paso News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.