4 Tips to Avoid Online Dating Scams

Online dating activity tends to spike during the winter months. As people set New Year’s resolutions and Valentine’s Day approaches, many turn to dating platforms in hopes of forming new connections or finding love.

While this seasonal surge can create exciting opportunities, it also attracts scammers looking to take advantage of unsuspecting users. What may start as a friendly conversation can quickly turn into an emotional—and financial— loss if you’re not careful.

The good news is that online dating doesn’t have to be risky. With the right precautions, you can explore new relationships while protecting yourself from fraud. If you’re creating a new dating profile or updating an existing one, these four practical tips can help you stay safe.

1. Be Careful About What You Share

Most dating platforms allow you to register using just a first name or username, giving you control over how much personal information is visible. While it’s perfectly fine to share interests like enjoying the outdoors or loving pets, avoid revealing sensitive details. Never include your full name, phone number, email address, or home location in your profile or username, as this information can be misused by scammers.

2. Use Photos Only for Dating Profiles

It’s a good idea to upload photos that are used exclusively for your dating profile. Avoid reusing pictures from your social media accounts such as Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, or X. Scammers often perform reverse image searches to find additional information about you, so keeping your dating photos separate adds an extra layer of privacy.

3. Tighten Privacy Settings on Social Media

Even if your dating profile is carefully limited, your social media accounts may still reveal personal details. Review and strengthen privacy settings across all platforms to control who can see your posts, photos, and personal information. This reduces the chances of someone piecing together details about your life once you start chatting online.

4. Use Platform Safety Features

Reputable dating platforms offer built-in tools designed to protect users. These may include features that mask your email address, limit profile visibility, or allow you to block and report suspicious behavior. Take advantage of these tools to keep conversations within the platform until you feel confident and comfortable.

Stay Aware of Red Flags

Online dating can be a positive experience when approached with caution. Stay alert for warning signs of scams, trust your instincts, and avoid rushing into sharing personal or financial information. There’s no need to avoid dating apps altogether—just stay informed, take your time, and protect yourself as you build new connections.