How to stay away from scammers on dating apps? There are so many men posing as women with beautiful pictures on their profile. It is tempting but also misleading. Is there any way to track or identify if someone is pranking or fooling with you? Pls help

Ans: Dear Anonymous,

Scams can happen to anyone who's not mindful while navigating the dating world, regardless of the mode. Coming to how you can protect yourself on dating sites, here are some easy tips:

• Don't share personal details such as phone numbers, social media handles, addresses, and the like on your profile.
• Avoid financial talks.
• Do not give away your whole story with a new match.
• Chat as much as possible before you meet in person.
• If you come across any suspicious profiles, report them; most dating apps take swift action.
• Avoid answering and initiating video calls with complete strangers
• Try having your first date in a public place. Inform at least one trusted friend or family member about your plans and whereabouts while meeting your online match in person for the first time.
• If your match acts suspiciously during your date, please leave. You haven't made any commitments to this person; your safety should be your only concern.

Hope these help. Best wishes!

Ans: Dear A,

It is true that a small portion of deviants make it through the air-tight security that most dating apps provide, but it wouldn't be right to say that there are no genuine people who are interested in interacting or being friends. In fact, a large majority of our users are in the app seeking friendship.

Here and there, you might find some spammy profiles that got through, despite a dating app’s best efforts. Report any suspicious profile as soon as you recognize them as fake users; I assure you that most dating apps take prompt action after checking the genuinity of the report.

Here are some ways to identify a fake profile:

• While some people do not put up their own pictures due to privacy issues, there will be at least a picture of an animal, some random scenery, or wallpapers. But a profile that has a blank space for a display image is more likely a fake one.
• Beware of suspicious first messages with a user directly sharing their number.
• Let's say, you have been talking to someone. If you notice inconsistencies in their stories, it might be a fake profile. Even if they aren't one, it's best not to be in contact with people starting a relationship with lies.
• Financial talks- discussing money or asking for money- during the chatting phase is a big red flag.

Hope this helps.

Ans: Meet girls in real life. Online dating apps is not the solution

Ans: Dear Raj,
Your concerns are valid, but it is not limited to online dating apps. Regardless of online and offline, cheaters will be there. But technically, the chances of getting scammed online are less because most dating apps have strict security policy and features. Despite these measures, people sometimes find a way to scam or cheat; that's why it is always recommended to be cautious while dating, and it goes for both online and offline- for instance, stay away from money talks, do not share sensitive details, be careful while sharing pictures, etc.

Moreover, most profiles are genuine people trying to find love or companionship.

Hope this helps.