Safety Online: Protect Yourself from Dating Scams and Catfishing

When you’re dating online, safety online, the practice of protecting your personal information and physical well-being while connecting with others through digital platforms. Also known as digital dating security, it’s not optional—it’s the first thing you need to get right before you even send a first message. Too many people treat online dating like a game, swiping and chatting without thinking about who’s really on the other side. But scams, fake profiles, and predators are real. You don’t need to be paranoid—you just need to be smart.

dating scams, fraudulent schemes where someone pretends to be interested in you to steal money, personal data, or both are rising fast. One common version? The love scam—someone builds a fake emotional connection over weeks, then asks for help with a medical emergency, travel cost, or "broken" payment system. Another is catfishing, when someone uses stolen photos and false details to create a fake identity. These aren’t rare. In 2023, the FTC reported over $1.3 billion lost to romance scams in the U.S. alone. And most victims didn’t realize they were being fooled until it was too late.

privacy tips, simple actions you take to limit what strangers can find out about you online can stop most of these problems before they start. Don’t share your full name, workplace, or home address early on. Use a burner email. Avoid video calls until you’ve verified their identity through multiple channels. Google their photos—90% of catfishes get caught this way. And never send money, gift cards, or crypto to someone you haven’t met in person. If they ask, it’s a red flag. Always.

Online dating can lead to real love, but only if you protect yourself first. The people who succeed aren’t the ones who trust the fastest—they’re the ones who ask the right questions, check the facts, and walk away when something feels off. You don’t need to be a tech expert. You just need to be careful.

Below, you’ll find real, tested advice from people who’ve been burned—and learned how to avoid it. From spotting fake profiles to setting boundaries that keep you safe, these guides cut through the noise. No theory. No fluff. Just what works when your safety is on the line.