It might seem a little creepy, but you have to take care of yourself first.
A good offense will be your best defense.
Check out their dating profile and check that it looks like someone spent time on it.
Or, by contrast, they have more than one profile on each service.
They have exceptionally low friend counts on their social media accounts.
Their photos are only of them in modeling-bang out shots and not of activities.
Their photos do not include other people like family or friends.
There are no tags for any of their photos.
Constant plays for your sympathy and asking for help.
They contact you out of the blueoutsideof your online dating service.
They declare their love for you quickly and before youve met in person.
Google reverse image searchis your best friend when it comes to quick and easy background checks.
If their photos match up with profiles of people with a different name, thats a major red flag.
Its important to look at the text in their profiles too.
Start by scanning for constant spelling and grammar mistakes.
Then paste them in a Google search to see if multiple profiles come up.
Or they may have copied somebodys real profile.
It could be even faster if youre both on board.
Would you want your real-life friends to know that you associate with strangers?
If you answered no then why would you do so online?
If our children understand it, why cant we?
They are a stranger and should be treated as such.
Its also important you keep your private information to yourself.
Dont be afraid to fire questions back.
If they seem suspicious, ask questions that might give them away.
If they say that they live nearby, ask them about local landmarks.
If they comment on how much they like the things you talk about, dig a little deeper.
Lastly, be honest with yourself to keep those blinders away.
If anything sounds strange or unbelievable, ask questions.
If the person is defensive, youre likely on to something.
Go with your gut and trust your instincts.
Illustration byOlga Kuevda(Shutterstock), image remixed by Nick Criscuolo.
