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Don’t fall head over heels for a romance scam

Posted on 14/02/2019

Valentine’s Day might be that perfect opportunity for star-crossed lovers around the world to share their heartfelt attraction to a potential partner, but it is also an opportunity for heartless scammers to prey on the lonely and vulnerable within the community.

To help protect those looking for love, Crime Stoppers South Australia encourages people to be on the lookout for signs that they are being scammed, and how to stay safe when meeting someone new for the first time.

Crime Stoppers South Australia chair, Ms Sharon Hanlon, said that while dating should be a fun and safe experience, important rules apply whether meeting someone online or in person for the first time.

“It is important for people to trust their instincts and remember that if something sounds too good to be true it probably is, and never, ever get financially involved with someone you hardly know,” Ms Hanlon said.

“Online dating sites are an increasingly popular option for many looking for love, but it is important to safeguard your privacy and anonymity. Don’t rush into meeting someone offline, and only exchange personal details when you are comfortable to do so,” Ms Hanlon said.

“If you do get to that point where you want to share contact details, consider using a free email service provider such as Gmail, Yahoo! or Hotmail in preference to a work email address. The more information you provide, the easier it is for someone to find out more about you via any social media account, online searching, or even contacting your employer under false pretences,” she said.

“It is hard to gauge how many people have actually fallen victims to a love scam because often victims are too embarrassed to come forward. Avoid putting yourself in that position by never sending money or offering financial assistance to someone you’re just getting to know – even if they claim it’s an emergency or promise to pay you back.”

“Dating scammers often try and trick their victims into falling in love and then deceitfully take their money. If someone you’ve met online but never met in person asks you to loan or gift them money then alarm bells should be ringing.”

It is estimated that lonely people are part of the many South Australians that are being duped for more than $10,000 every day by unscrupulous thieves. In fact the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission found that scammers fleeced South Australians out of $3.67 million in 2017 using a variety of deceptions – including classic romance scams.

Around 30 per cent of dating and romance scams reported were conducted via social media sites, most commonly on Facebook.

Some other safe dating tips include:

Meet when you are ready – you are not obliged to meet anyone so don’t feel pressured. Regardless of how much communication you’ve had online, take all the time you need to become comfortable with someone before sharing any contact details.
Talk on the phone – before jumping into a face-to-face meeting, think about having a chat on the phone before you meet – and consider using your mobile instead of sharing your home or work number.
Pick a safe place – the ideal spot will be in a well-lit public location, with plenty of people around, is easy to get to and where you will feel comfortable. If possible, have your own transport to begin with rather than accepting any offer to be picked up.
Tell a friend – on the first date, let a trusted friend know where you will be and give them your date’s contact number and name. Think about asking that person to call at a pre-determined time for a safety check-in. If the date is a dud, it makes for a good excuse to cut the date short. Make sure you’ve charged your mobile before heading out.
Watch your drink – never leave your drink unattended. It is very quick and easy to spike a drink so don’t give anyone that opportunity.

“Always be aware of your surroundings, stay vigilant, and if you feel in danger when out with someone new then move and consider calling for help,” Ms Hanlon said.

If you have any information about criminals or criminal activity then call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestopperssa.com.au

People can remain anonymous and rewards are available.