Signs of a Scammer in Your Online Relationship

Online relationships can be exciting, but sometimes, they turn into a scam. Detecting a scammer early on can save you from financial and emotional harm. Here are some warning signs that your online boyfriend might be a scammer.

money asks - the 100 sign

One of the most common and blatant signs of a scammer is if they keep asking for money or gift cards. If you've never met them in person, via a video call, or even received a package from them, and they keep requesting financial contributions, there's a high chance they are after your money.

Lack of Meeting in Person

Another red flag is if your boyfriend has been asking for money for weeks, yet they still haven't arranged a meeting (either in person or via video call). This is a classic sign that something is not right. If you've sent them money and now they're asking for more, or if they're always making excuses for not wanting to meet, it's time to re-evaluate the relationship.

Broken English and Consistent Excuses

If your boyfriend's English is poor, it could be a sign that they are from another culture and may be scammers preying on their targets' kindness. Additionally, if they frequently come up with excuses for not meeting you, such as "my internet is down" or "I'm too busy at work," be wary. Consistent excuses and broken English indicate a possible scam.

Lying and Emotional Abuse

Lying and emotional manipulation are common tactics used by scammers. If your boyfriend consistently lies about their past or keeps fabricating stories to gain your trust, it's a sign that you might be dealing with a scammer. Furthermore, if they try to isolate you from your family and friends, that's another red flag.

Promises of Easy Money

If your boyfriend promises to make you lots of money through quick and easy methods, be cautious. These promises are often part of a larger scam. If they ask for your credit card information or claim to have an unusual payment method (such as preloaded debit cards, gift cards, or even iTunes), it's a strong indication that they are trying to get your financial information for their own gain.

Breaking Commitments

Consistency is crucial in genuine relationships. If your boyfriend frequently breaks their commitments and then gives you an excuse, it's a sign of a scammer. Scammers often have a consistent pattern of breaking dates and blaming others for it. Similarly, if they keep requesting more money without any clear reason or follow-through, it's a red flag.

Initial Love Bombing and Emotional Manipulation

Scammers often use "love bombing" tactics to win your trust quickly. They might profess a constant love for you and say that they have looked for you as their soulmate. This emotional manipulation is part of their strategy to keep you hooked. Once you become emotionally attached, they might start to abuse you emotionally, leading to a traumatic bond that can be difficult to break.

Empathetic People vs. Those Without Empathy

Not all people who commit scams are the same. Some have a prenatal brain deficit that prevents them from developing empathy. They cannot love anyone but themselves, lie, cheat, and steal with impunity, and never take responsibility for their actions. These people can be incredibly manipulative and emotionally abusive.

Precaution and Trust

Always approach online relationships with caution. If something seems too good to be true, it probably is. Never send money, give out credit card information, or share personal documents online without verifying the person's identity. If you have any doubts, consult a legal expert or a service like Roll Consults to investigate the situation.

Remember, online safety is crucial. Be aware of the signs of scammers and take proactive steps to protect yourself and your loved ones. If you suspect a scam, report it to the appropriate authorities to help prevent others from falling victim.

Conclusion

Identifying a scammer early can save you from significant emotional and financial harm. Keep an eye out for broken English, consistent excuses, and promises of easy money. Additionally, be wary of those who isolate you from your friends and family. Trust your instincts and take proactive steps to ensure your online safety.