Scammers targeting online dating industry

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By John North, Contributing Writer 11:04 AM Saturday, February 4, 2012

Valentine’s Day is swiftly approaching and many are hoping to find a special someone before the 14th.

In today’s wired world, online dating is one of the fastest ways to meet new people. Singles can now easily access thousands of Web sites offering a chance at love — for a fee. In fact, it’s estimated 15 million subscribers searched for love online last year. Jupiter Research projects revenues for the online dating industry will rise from $900 million in 2007 to $1.9 billion in 2012.

Due to the popularity of online dating sites, scammers are targeting singles of all ages and locations by creating fake profiles. These fake profiles are designed to gain victims’ trust, with the ultimate intention of stealing identities or money.

Unfortunately, dating schemes trick thousands of people annually, taking millions of dollars from unsuspecting victims. These scammers are also rarely prosecuted, because most of the time they’re overseas where it’s difficult for U.S. investigators to take action.

If you decide to use an online dating site to find love, your Better Business Bureau recommends using caution when the person you’re corresponding with:

• Is quick to develop the relationship and claims instant feelings of love.

• Claims to be from the United States, but is currently overseas.

• Has a sudden emergency requiring a large amount of money.

• Asks for financial assistance to pay for travel, visas, medication, a child or relative’s hospital bills or a financial setback.

• And, never send money to someone you’ve never met no matter how serious or desperate the situation sounds.

Your BBB ranked dating services 65th among the top 100 industries nationwide in 2011 receiving the most complaints. Common online dating site complaints involve the use of automatic renewal programs, dating services submitting matches not meeting the criteria specified in online applications, services retaining profiles of people which are no longer members and the inability to cancel memberships. Be sure to thoroughly read and understand contracts before signing.

Remember, your safety is critical. Don’t reveal personal information in your online dating profile, including your full name, phone number, workplace or specifics about where you live. When it’s time to meet for the first time in person, arrange to meet in a public place and provide your own transportation.

Before signing up for an online dating site, check it out with your BBB by visiting www.bbb.org or calling (937) 222-5825 or (800) 776-5301.

John North is president and CEO of the Better Business Bureau.

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