Online dating scam (s)

[realFedUp]

Yes, I am still doing online dating and hate it for so many reasons, but I keep hoping someone and something real will turn up. I recently was involved in corresponding with a scammer...so am posting this as a warning to those like me who didn't have a clue about it. When you sign up at a new site, you'll often get messages asking for your e-mail address. Don't give it. It usually means the person asking for it hasn't signed up or paid any money to join the site. After first corresponding with one person, you might get quickly rushed with romantic messages, legitimate looking photos and promises. After a length of time, and after you've shared some private information, that person might ask for money. Never send anyone money, especially if you haven't even met that person. It's a scam.

Tip offs...if you can't get a phone number from them or any very personal information, don't correspond anymore and report said person to the website.

I haven't done any research on this stuff, but have to believe it's been reported.

[Lionessa]

1. Really?

Of course don't send money to anyone, but not sharing an email addy? WTF. So someone didn't sign up and pay and are using the site for free, so what? Email correspondence doesn't hurt or expose anyone usually. I have an email specifically for dating sites.

I never give my phone number until a third date, my phone exposes me, so according to you I'm a scammer. I can't fathom why you'd share "private information" with someone you've not even met.

I understand your desire to warn people, but your advise isn't sound at all. Just as with any other manner by which one might hope to meet a mate, protect your personal information and pocketbook until you are certain he/she is worth the risk. That pretty much covers it.