As Valentine's Day approaches, more people are using apps like Tinder. Bumble e happn. This causes scams on these platforms to increase. SaferNet Brasil noted a 30% growth in complaints in 2024. This shows that romantic scams And requests for money became common.

Scams on dating apps range from fake profiles ...even schemes to steal your banking information. Fillipe Dornelas, creator of Denga Love, explains how to spot a dating app that isn't trustworthy. He also gives tips on how to minimize the risks.

Since the 1990s, people have been looking for love online. But, over time, the dangers have also grown. Research indicates that up to 1 in 10 profiles on dating apps may be fake. Not only your money, but your physical safety is at risk. In São Paulo, crimes involving the "Tinder scam" show that violence and kidnapping can occur.

To stay safe on dating apps, keep conversations within the app. Don't give out too much personal information and use video calls before meeting in person. These actions are crucial for your safety on Tinder. BumbleHappn and others.

Signs that your dating app isn't safe.

It's important to be aware of risks in online conversations. Be wary of profiles that seem too perfect or lack a real social life. Check if the stories told are inconsistent and be careful with strange requests.

Profiles that appear "too perfect" and show signs of being fake.

If you notice profiles with very well-produced photos, few posts, and no comments, be wary. These images may be from stock photo databases or professional photoshoots, chosen by scammers. Use Google Images or Google Lens to check if the photo appears elsewhere.

Also be wary of descriptions that don't say anything concrete and responses that seem automatic. A lack of mutual contacts can be a bad sign. Low-quality or altered photos can also indicate a fake profile.

Requests for money, gift cards, or bank information.

Be wary if someone asks for money using sad or urgent stories. Scammers use emotional appeals to get you to open your wallet. Never Share PIX, bank details or buy gift cards for people you met online.

If they insist on asking for money, it's best Report and block. Sharing data can lead to identity theft. Authorities always advise keeping this information secure.

Urgency to move the conversation out of the app

If you're asked to immediately switch to WhatsApp or another platform, it could be a trap. Scammers want to evade the app's monitoring and control the conversation. It's safer to keep the conversation within the app to protect yourself.

Links that seem suspicious and a rush to leave the app should raise red flags. Take it slow, carefully check the profile, and only proceed if you feel confident.

How to recognize security flaws in your own application.

Before creating a profile, it's a good idea to check the app reputationSee media reports about incidents. Scams are on the rise, revealing... fake apps. Bots in dating apps They can reveal a vulnerable platform. It is useful to research complaints and consult the Better Business Bureau.

Fake profiles and fraudulent apps/websites

Profiles with the same photos or messages indicate a fraudulent app. Fake apps and websites try to appear legitimate by copying famous login screens. Negative reviews and the presence of bots in dating apps These are fraud alerts.

Be wary if someone tries to redirect the conversation to another website or asks for your personal information. Don't connect your social media accounts to your app profile. Opt for well-known apps that verify user profiles.

Privacy settings and data usage

Read privacy policy Before accepting, some apps ask for unnecessary permissions, such as access to your contacts.

Use a shortened name, avoid your last name and personal links. Disable location services in the app to protect your privacy. This prevents people from knowing where you live or work.

Larger apps allow you to block users and browse anonymously. See how they store your data, keeping your security in mind.

Technical vulnerabilities and phishing

Phishing is common on dating apps to steal passwords and banking information. Beware of suspicious links in messages. They may contain malware or lead to fraudulent websites.

Keep your device and apps updated. Use a antivirus Trusted software, such as Kaspersky, can be used to detect dangerous links.

Do not log in on public computers. Report suspicious activity. One password manager A VPN increases your online security.

Signs of risky behavior from other users

Before scheduling a date or clicking on responses, be aware of certain signs. Harassment often begins on dating apps, escalating into inappropriate messages. By reporting and blocking, you help protect more people on the platform.

Harassment, intrusive messages, and stalking.

If you receive explicit messages Without consent, this is a warning sign. Research shows that many women receive unwanted images. Some even face threats of violence.

Ignoring boundaries and insisting after a "no" can lead to... stalkingIn extreme situations, there have been cases of kidnapping linked to dating apps. This was revealed by the Civil Police in São Paulo.

If you experience harassment on dating apps, block the user. Keep evidence and notify the platform. These actions can prevent future incidents and protect others.

Narrative inconsistencies and emotional manipulation

Scammers use sad or contradictory stories to gain your trust. They also offer excessive praise and want to create a quick bond, acting as bait.

Methods of social engineering They try to create a false sense of intimacy quickly. Pay attention to inconsistent answers, strange absences, and sudden changes. These are warning signs.

A emotional manipulation It can come in the form of blackmail, urgent requests, or attempts to isolate you from friends and family. Stay in touch with people you trust and verify information before fully trusting them.

Technical signs that indicate a possible scam.

Some technical signs may indicate attempted fraud. Duplicate profiles Few photos disappearing, or having only a few, indicates problems.

Typical bot behavior includes automated messages or replies at very regular times. Keep an eye out for photos that appear edited. Experts recommend searching for photos and names online to verify.

If someone refuses to verify their identity via video, be careful. Requiring video confirmation before meetings helps avoid risks and confirms who the person says they are.

Practical steps to increase your safety when using dating apps.

Before creating a profile, think about what you're going to share. Use your first name or a nickname. Choose a photo that you haven't used on social media. This reduces the chances of being found outside the app.

Avoid including too much personal information, such as your last name, address, or identification documents. This helps protect your privacy.

When completing your profile, write brief descriptions. Don't talk in detail about your work, your routine, or your travels. If you decide to leave the app, delete your profile. And don't forget to clear your phone's data.

Careful consideration should be given to your profile and the information you share.

• Use reverse image search to check if your photo is already on another part of the internet.
• Protect your accounts with strong passwords and a password managerDo not use public computers to access your accounts.
• Set your profile to private. This way, only authorized people can see it.

Protocols for face-to-face meetings and communication

• Arrange to meet in public places with lots of people. This makes you feel safer.
• Have a friend check in with you. Share your location with them. And plan how you're going to get back home.
• Make a video call before meeting in person. This helps to confirm who the person is. If necessary, make several calls.
• If your plans change at the last minute, it's best to cancel. And reschedule at a place you know.

Tools and protective measures

• Be reverse image search If you suspect the profile is fake.
• install a antivirus Trustworthy. And keep everything updated.
• Consider using something like Kaspersky Password Manager. It helps keep your passwords protected.
• If someone acts strangely, report and block them. Contact the app's support team. And, if it's serious, contact the police.

Following these tips can help you use dating apps more safely. Trust your gut feeling. And always think about your safety.

Conclusion

To stay safe when using dating apps, remember: identify yourself. fake profiles And don't accept requests for money. Be wary of anyone who wants to leave the app quickly. Warning signs include intrusive behavior, harassment, and inconsistencies in their stories. Communicating through the app and verifying photos helps reduce risks.

It's also important to consider the app's security. Avoid unknown apps that could misuse your data. Opt for photos you don't use elsewhere, prefer video calls before meeting in person, and see what other users say about apps like Tinder and [other apps]. BumbleThis helps in choosing safe places to connect.

When meeting someone in person, choose public places during the day. Inform friends or family about your whereabouts. If you feel you are in danger, report the user on the app and call the police at 190. Knowing how to protect yourself on dating apps is crucial for your safety.