We believe there is a balance between a productive search for the perfect mate or a new friend and keeping safe at all times. You might ask, is it possible for me to be spontaneous without endangering life and limb? Our answer is a resounding "YES" - so long as you let your good instincts guide your actions.
In an effort to maximize your well being, without compromising your enjoyment, we offer the following tips.

How do I identify a scam?

The scammer will ask for your money! This will not happen immediately - however, before long the scammer will ask for financial help for any number of reasons. Almost always, they will ask you to send money using an untraceable source such as a telegraphic money transfer. Some of the most common reasons they give for why they need your help include:

• I want to meet you but I don't have enough money to travel to see you 

• I have been robbed and beaten, I require urgent surgery or treatment for a serious illness or me or my family member has been a victim of a serious or fatal accident and you are the only person who can help 

• I am stranded abroad and I don't have money for travel or visa costs.

• I want to purchase a home or property with you

• I need your bank account for help in depositing cheques, money orders, drafts…

Other signs are:

• your new date looks like a model - this is probably because the scammer has used a stolen or a magazine picture

 • your new date only gives you a post office address and/or a phone number which he or she never answers and which does not have voicemail

• your date talks a lot about herself or himself and does not answer your questions - probably because they are sending standard emails to hundreds of people.

What can I do to protect myself?

• only use a reputable online dating or chat service and follow the basic safety tips for online dating

• be skeptical and ask yourself simple questions like, 'why am I the only person who can help them but I have just met them?'

• test your date - ask them lots of questions, try to phone them or post them something or possibly suggest meeting them. If all attempts fail, you are probably dealing with a scammer.

What can I do if I have already lost money?

If you have already sent money there is little chance of you ever recovering it from them. However what you can do is:

• call Phonebusters 1-888-495-8501 for advice and to report the matter

• report the scam to the dating or chat room site where you met the person.

• contact your local police and report the matter or to obtain more information

FAQ stands for Frequently Asked Questions, and because they are usually common questions we have answered them in this section. If you cannot find the answers you are looking for here, please email us so we can help you!
We will continue to add FAQ's as members keep asking questions. We are new and truly need your input to improve your site.