Dating has become very easy with online dating websites, where you can easily find the perfect mate based on factors such as interests, distance and compatibility.

However, not all the profiles are real and belong to those people who are looking for their perfect partner. False profiles have various motives for existing, such as scams, fraud, identity theft and information theft.

But fear not, because you do not have to become an expert in detecting false online dating accounts. Here are a couple of tips for identifying a fake profile.

So, how to detect a fake dating profile? Let’s check the main signs below.

 

1.    The Photos Appear Too Perfect

 

Detecting whether the dating profile is fake on dating websites can be done by checking the images.

Are there one or two images in the profile of the person who created the dating profile? Are all the photos professionally shot? Are there any signs of photo theft from modeling websites or social networks?

Photos of an attractive person may be used to fake the profile. Usually, all the photos are completely different and resemble someone else.

Yet, an attractive person does not have to own a fake dating profile. The problem lies in the inconsistency of the images.

Tip: Take advantage of any opportunities the dating website offers.

 

2.    Their Biography is Very Vague

 

When a biography doesn’t reveal anything about the individual, it’s worth paying attention to.

It could be part of the profile of a fictional online dating user. For instance, “I love traveling, having fun and meeting new people.” It’s great; however, it lacks many details, so it should be taken only as an indication.

Actual individuals often have some unique information to share about themselves. They may list their favorite activities, profession, sports, place, or weekend pastimes.

A vague biography alone does not prove that the person is fictitious, but coupled with other indicators, it could become important.

 

3.    Their Information Does Not Add Up

 

Make sure you notice any differences between their profile and what they say.

For instance, although their profile says they reside in one city, they are somehow in another. It also applies to other aspects of their lives, such as their job, age, marriage, and more.

Of course, people may move or make honest errors. But continuous contradictions should raise some questions for you.

Consistency is definitely one of the best indicators for spotting a fake online dating profile. You do not have to question anyone; listen and see if their story adds up.

 

4.    They Are In a Hurry to Leave the Dating App

 

Have they asked for your WhatsApp number or email right away, after a few text exchanges?

Nothing wrong in trying to communicate through another method. However, what should raise red flags is when a person pushes for an immediate transition off the dating app and feels very uncomfortable doing the chatting there.

Some fake dating accounts actually do this because they want to switch to a less secure communication channel. Then they can start making requests for personal information, sending suspicious links, and putting pressure on you emotionally.

Do not get pushed into switching mediums too quickly. If you prefer to keep conversations separate from your personal contact details while getting to know someone, anonymous chat can provide a more private way to start a conversation without immediately sharing your phone number or email address.

 

5.    They Come Across as Following a Script

 

The third red flag is how the scammer communicates.

Sometimes scammers use copied or scripted messages when communicating with many different people. The compliments could be over the top, their answers could fail to address your queries, or they could keep repeating similar statements.

In one instance, somebody whom you’ve known for not even a day tells you that “you’re the person he has been waiting for,” or that he has developed strong feelings for you.

Romantically, it is possible to develop feelings quite quickly; however, declarations from a stranger should definitely raise your suspicions.

 

6.     They Avoid Video Calls or Meet

 

The person who is really interested in knowing you will, at some point, become comfortable in showing that they are the person they say they are.

Then it is someone who always makes an excuse for not having a video chat with you or meeting you in person.

They might claim that their webcam does not work properly, or that they are away on holiday or abroad for work.

That is not something to ignore. The same caution applies when you eventually meet someone in person. Learning to recognise signs your blind date is going badly can help you pay attention to uncomfortable behaviour instead of ignoring your instincts simply because you have already invested time in the connection.

 

7.    They Request Money or Personal Information

 

This can be considered one of the most telling signs.

If the person that you have met through a dating website asks for any money or gift cards or for your help in any way, such as with finances, cryptocurrency, banking information, passwords, and anything personal, then consider the relationship very carefully.

The request will usually be accompanied by an emotional story related to their illnesses, financial issues, work troubles, family issues, or travel.

This is a usual method applied to make you feel sympathetic towards them. You should never send the money because, according to them, you’re having some trouble.

 

8.    They Have an Astonishingly Small Digital Footprint

 

Sometimes, some internet digging may prove handy in identifying such discrepancies.

If one claims to be a professional, a traveler, an entrepreneur, or anyone else whose life is out in the open yet has absolutely no online footprint, then perhaps it is time to question that individual.

There is no need for you to delve into the person’s life much. However, when everything looks too good to be true, then it surely is.

 

Trust Your Gut

 

Identifying fake profiles on dating websites doesn’t always come down to spotting one telltale sign. It’s usually identifying multiple things that don’t seem quite right about them.

When a dodgy photo, sketchy profile, conflicting stories, rushing into things, not wanting to video chat, and asking for money all happen at once, that’s much more alarming.

Just because you have invested time in the conversation doesn’t mean you must continue if you feel something isn’t right.

The person’s profile can be blocked, unfriended, and even reported from the online dating site.

Final Conclusion

Being able to spot fake dating profiles will not only prevent you from any disappointment but will also help you protect yourself from scams. Although it is impossible to be sure that a profile is fake based on one single red flag, several such signs at once should definitely raise some suspicions in your mind.

Be careful with your new acquaintances, confirm their information when necessary, do not share your private details and most importantly – never send money to the person whom you have not yet met in real life.

The aim here is not to distrust everybody; it just means being cautious.