6 tips for safer dating
As the dating app that wants to get you off your phone and out on great dates, we want you to feel excited to meet new people, not worried about romance scams. On top of our built in security-systems, you can protect yourself by:
#1 Ask questions
What can help you look for both personal dealbreakers and potential scams? Questions. Beyond learning what someone’s like, asking personal questions can help you spot superficial responses from potential scammers. Don’t forget to look for that verified selfie check mark.
#2 Take your time
Scammers want to move your chat away from our Safe Message Filters (learn more here). If you’re feeling good about a connection, after moving to chat off Hinge, a phone call or video chat can be a useful screening tool before meeting in person. If they only want to text, it’s probably a red flag.
#3 Separate business and pleasure
Many people connect over shared ambitions and expertise, but dates should never try to give you crypto or investment advice. If someone tells you where to invest your money, report it to Hinge as soon as you can.
#4 Keep it grounded
Scammers love to tell victims all the ways they can quickly and dramatically improve people’s financial situations. If it sounds too good to be true, it is. Never share information that could be used to access your financial accounts, especially if you haven't met in person.
#5 Protect your generosity
Scammers often claim they need money for a Visa, customs fees, surgeries, family medical bills, car repairs or plane tickets to visit. Whether they sound desperate or actually in need, if money is involved, it’s best to report them and move on.
#6 Stay observant
Some scammers are in it for a quick win. Others, unfortunately, play the long game. Wait until people earn your trust before finances join the conversation. As a rule it’s best to never send or receive money via a wire transfer, money order, currency exchange, gift card or investment. Not for any reason. Ever.
For more Safe Dating Tips check out our Safe Dating Advice.