More and more people in the East Midlands are turning to the Internet is search of love. In the East Midlands alone, more than 180,000 people are using JUST ONE of the leading dating websites. But, while there is along list of romantic success stories, there are also people who have been tricked or ripped off. Below is some advice and tips for those entering the world on online dating, drawn from a variety of sources.
 | | Scams often involve passport costs |
The Office of Fair Trading says: "An online dating scam is when a scammer, male or female, creates a false personal profile and makes contact with you via an online dating agency or even a specialised chat room. The scammer says that they are seeking romance or a soul mate but are really out to steal not only your heart but your cash too." After building some rapport, the scammer will usually ask you to send money using an untraceable source, such as a telegraphic money transfer. Typical reasons they will ask you for money include: - Wanting to meet but not having enough money to travel. - Claiming to need money for medical treatment. - Being stranded overseas and not having funds for travel or visa costs. Signs that you're being scammed include your new date looking like a model (this is probably because the scammer used a stolen or a magazine picture) or your new date only giving you a post office address or a phone number which he or she never answers. | "Cries for help or money are often preceded by a warm-up of sexually lively letters" | | antiscam.net |
Also be wary if your date talks a lot about herself or himself and does not answer your questions - this is probably because they're sending standard emails to hundreds of people. The Office of Fair Trading recommends only using a reputable online dating or chat services and always be skeptical, asking questions such as "why am I the only person who can help them but I have just met them?". It also says you should test your date - asking them lots of questions, trying to phone them or post them something or possibly suggest meeting them. If all attempts fail, you are probably dealing with a scammer. Watchdog website antiscam.net is also full of advice and tips to avoid being ripped off. Some of its key tips include: - Don't mention how much money you have or what possessions you own. - Cries for help or money are often preceded by a warm-up of sexually lively letters, or photos and suggestive content. Requests for money usually have a tight deadline. Never send money! - Don't rush the relationship. A scammer won't want to waste time on long, drawn-out targets. Antiscam.net publishes a blacklist of identified scammers. Click on their link above to find out more. | 
