HOUSTON — If you use dating websites or apps, you'll want to watch out for this scam.
The FBI is warning of a "free" online verification service scheme that targets users of these websites or apps to defraud them into signing up for recurring payments.
On top of that, scammers will collect information entered by the victims, like emails, phone numbers and credit card information, and use it for other fraudulent activity like identity theft or selling data on the dark web.
How the scheme works:
The FBI said when scammers meet victims on a dating website or app, they'll express interest, establish a relationship and move the conversation over to an encrypted platform.
The scammer will provide a link that directs the victim to a website advertising a "free" verification process to protect against establishing a relationship with predators, such as sex offenders or serial killers, according to the FBI.
The website will display fake articles to make it seem like it's legit. The verification website will prompt the victim to provide information such as their name, phone number, email address and credit card number to complete the process.
The FBI said once the victim submits the information, they are redirected to a private, low-quality dating site charging costly monthly subscription fees.
Eventually, the victim's monthly credit card statement will display a charge to an unknown business.
How to protect yourself:
- Avoid clicking on links, downloading files, or opening attachments from someone you only met online. Only open attachments from known senders and scan all attachments for viruses, if possible.
- Avoid moving the conversation from a reputable dating site's messaging service, since many of these offer some safety features.
- Report suspicious user profiles to the dating site administrator and cease all contact with suspicious users.
- Be cautious of someone you only met online professing their love quickly, expressing a need for help, and/or enticing you with provocative pictures and text topics. Fraudsters use social behavior to deceive you and separate you from your hard-earned money.
- Do not provide sensitive information to someone you only met online. Regularly monitor your personal financial accounts for irregularities, such as recurring charges to unknown businesses.
- Contact your credit card issuer/bank as soon as possible if you discover what appears to be a fraudulent transaction. Explore the possibility of closing that credit card.
- Use one credit card with a limited balance or consider using virtual credit cards when subscribing to new online services.
- Avoid websites that use scare tactics to coerce you to register for a service. Search the source of all information to determine its legitimacy.
- Stay updated about the latest fraud schemes by following the FBI IC3 website or other financial government websites.
To report fraudulent, suspicious or online criminal activity to the FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center, click here.
