Tag Archive for: Scams

Scams in Costa Rica

Just like any other country, scams in Costa Rica experience its share of scams targeting both tourists and locals. While the situation may change over time, as of my last update in September 2021, here are some popular scams that have been reported in Costa Rica. To avoid falling victim to scams in Costa Rica (or anywhere else), here are some practical steps you can take.

Research and Plan Ahead:

Before you travel, research your destination thoroughly. Familiarize yourself with the local customs, common scams, and areas to avoid. This will help you make informed decisions and recognize potentially risky situations.

Use Reputable Sources:

When booking accommodations, tours, or activities, use reputable travel websites, apps, or agencies with positive reviews. Check for official websites or physical addresses when booking services.

Use Official Transportation:

Stick to official taxis, rideshare services, or pre-arranged transportation from reputable companies. Avoid accepting rides from strangers or unlicensed drivers. Make sure if you use a taxi, you get the price before you get into the car.

Avoid Public Wi-Fi for Sensitive Transactions:

Refrain from using public Wi-Fi networks for online banking, shopping, or any activities involving sensitive personal information. If necessary, use a VPN to encrypt your internet connection.

Unsolicited Offers:

Be cautious of individuals who approach you with unsolicited offers, especially if they seem too good to be true. Politely decline and walk away if you’re uncomfortable.

Guard Your Personal Information:

Don’t share personal or financial information with strangers. Be cautious about displaying expensive items like jewelry or electronics, as this might attract unwanted attention. You should guard your passport and cash. I recommend that you make a copy of your passport and carry it with you. You should leave your passport in the safe where you are staying.

Inspect Rental Vehicles:

If renting a car, thoroughly inspect it for existing damage before driving off. Take photos and document any scratches or issues to avoid disputes later.

Use ATMs Wisely:

Use ATMs located in well-lit, busy areas, such as banks or shopping centers. Cover your PIN while entering it, and be cautious if the ATM looks suspicious or tampered with.

“Helpful” Strangers:

While it’s okay to accept help from genuine locals, be cautious if someone insists on guiding you or offering unsolicited assistance. Politely decline if you’re not comfortable.

Educate Yourself on Local Currency:

Familiarize yourself with the local currency and exchange rates to avoid being tricked into unfair deals. Use official currency exchange centers or banks.

Trust Your Instincts:

If something feels off or too good to be true, it probably is. Trust your instincts and err on the side of caution.

Emergency Contacts:

Save the local embassy or consulate’s contact information in case you encounter legal or safety issues. They can provide assistance if needed.

Learn Basic Local Phrases:

Learning a few basic phrases in the local language can help you communicate and build rapport with locals, making it less likely for scammers to target you.

Secure Your Belongings:

Keep your belongings secure, especially in crowded places or tourist areas. Use anti-theft bags or money belts to protect your valuables.

Stay informed and keep up with local news and updates to be aware of any new scams or safety concerns that might arise during your stay.

Remember that being cautious doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy your trip. It’s about being aware of your surroundings and making informed decisions to have a safe and pleasant experience.

 

 

New Import Law for Residents

The newly approved Law 9996, aimed at attracting investors, rentiers, and pensioners, has now taken effect. The new import law for residents grants added benefits to new residency applicants in three categories: retirees, renters, and investors. These benefits are applicable to individuals who apply for residency within the first five years of the law’s validity (2023) and will remain in effect for ten years after approval. I receive many inquiries regarding the importation of personal belongings from the United States.

Here is a summary of the new import law

Our legal department at Cody L Gear and Associates in Escazu has reviewed and prepared this summary.

Household Goods:

Importing household goods, including new and used appliances, furniture, decorative items, and more, is now exempt from one-time taxes. Thus, it is important to understand that the law allows for reasonable quantities, and you cannot bring half of Walmart with you. (Ref: “Decree N° 43926 -MGP-H-TUR, the regulation of Law 9996, March 2023”)

Vehicle Imports:

Individuals can import up to two vehicles for personal or family use without paying import tax, customs fees, or value-added taxes. This exemption applies to land, maritime, and air transport. If someone steals or destroys your vehicle, you can import a replacement vehicle with the same exemptions. (Ref: “Decree N° 43926 -MGP-H-TUR, the regulation of Law 9996, March 2023”)

Income Tax:

The law waives the income tax related to obtaining migratory status, but it subjects income derived from investments within the national territory to income tax. (Note: Further details about the tax reduction of property acquired during the law’s validity are available. Also, equipment or materials for professional or scientific use are exempt from taxes.

Additionally, the law specifies that beneficiaries of immigration status as investors, residents, and retirees will not automatically become tax residents.

In the investor category, the law has reduced the required investment amount from $200,000 USD to $150,000 USD. Individuals can make investments by acquiring assets, shares, securities, or projects of national interest. Moreover, this category also includes consideration for venture capital and sustainable tourism infrastructure investments.

Residents applying for residency in Costa Rica can import a maximum of two vehicles for personal or family purposes, free from import tax, customs fees, and value-added taxes. If a vehicle is stolen or destroyed, a replacement vehicle can be imported with the same exemptions.

These exemptions remain valid for ten years, expiring in July 2031.

To apply for import duty exemptions on vehicles or household goods, the following steps must be taken:

Present your Costa Rica DIMEX card as proof of resident status (retiree, renter, or investor).

Deposit your vehicle at a customs warehouse.

Apply for exemption from the Treasury Department (Ministerio de Hacienda) through their website, EXONET.

You will also need to provide:

A digital signature.

You need certification of being up to date with Caja payments.

Also, a certificate of no outstanding taxes, corporation fees, or property taxes.

Finally, you will need certification of shares owned in the corporation responsible for importing the vehicle and/or goods.

A sworn and notarized statement from each qualified family member (spouse and/or adult single children under 25) confirming they will not request exoneration separately.

The bill of lading and a copy of the vehicle’s title.

The customs value of the vehicle.

Obtaining these certifications takes time and may incur several hundred dollars in lawyer fees.

Once all documents are uploaded to the EXONET website, the Treasury Department has sixty days to approve or deny the application. Approval is based on the economic income declared during the residency application process, considering whether the requested exonerations are within the means of the applicant’s monthly income.

For more assistance contact us at info@codylgearandassociates.com

 

Few things in Costa Rica you should avoid

While Costa Rica is a beautiful country with a welcoming culture, there are certain actions or behaviors that could be considered inappropriate or disrespectful. Here are a few things in Costa Rica you should avoid doing in Costa Rica.

Disregarding environmental conservation:

Costa Rica is known for its commitment to environmental sustainability. Avoid littering, damaging natural habitats, or engaging in activities that harm the local flora and fauna. Respect the country’s efforts to preserve its rich biodiversity.

Ignoring cultural customs:

Costa Ricans value their traditions and customs. It’s important to be respectful and mindful of their culture. Avoid disrespectful behavior, such as making offensive jokes or disregarding local customs and etiquette. Remember, you are a “gringo” and as such you are already a target of misdeeds. Before you visit Costa Rica, do your homework, as this could save you heartache and money.

Overlooking safety precautions:

Costa Rica is generally a safe country, but like any other destination, it’s important to take precautions. Don’t leave your belongings unattended, especially in crowded areas or tourist hotspots. Avoid walking alone in unfamiliar or isolated areas, particularly at night.

Neglecting the local economy:

When traveling, support the local economy by purchasing souvenirs, dining at local restaurants, and booking tours or accommodations run by Costa Rican businesses. Avoid large international chain hotels or restaurants that don’t contribute to the local community.

Underestimating travel distances:

Costa Rica may seem small on a map, but the terrain can make travel times longer than expected. Don’t underestimate distances and plan your itinerary accordingly. Rushing through destinations or trying to cover too much ground in a short time can lead to frustration and exhaustion.

Remember, respectful behavior, consideration for the environment, and embracing the local culture will contribute to a positive and enjoyable experience in Costa Rica. Although this list of a few things in Costa Rica you should avoid is short, it will help you have a better experience.

 

Costa Rica Pros and Cons

Costa Rica pros and cons you need to be aware of when traveling to this part of the world. Costa Rica  is a popular travel destination for Americans due to its beautiful landscapes and friendly people. However, there are several potential problems that Americans might face while traveling here, which can be easily avoided with a little bit of preparation. We’ll discuss some common problems Americans might encounter in Costa Rica and the steps they can take to avoid them.

Culture Shock:

Culture shock can occur when traveling to a new country and can be overwhelming. To avoid culture shock, it’s important to research the culture and customs of Costa Rica prior to your trip. You understanding the expectations and norms of the local people, and will also give you an idea of what to expect. For example when you look for to food, clothing, and social customs.

Language Barrier:

Although many people in Costa Rica speak English, not everyone does. To avoid communication difficulties, it’s a good idea to learn some basic Spanish phrases before your trip. This will make it easier to communicate with local people. Also, will also help you to understand signs, menus, and other important information.

Health Concerns:

Costa Rica has a different climate and different health concerns than the United States. To avoid health problems, it’s important to consult with your doctor before your trip and to take necessary precautions, such as getting vaccinations and bringing any necessary medications. Bear in mind that your insurance will not cover you here. Health care here is excellent but you must pay for it if your are not a Costa Rica citizen.

Safety Concerns:

Costa Rica is generally considered a safe place for travelers, but crime can still occur. To avoid safety issues, it’s important to take common-sense precautions, such as avoiding walking alone at night, not displaying large amounts of money, and keeping your valuables in a safe place.

Environmental Concerns:

Costa Rica is known for its beautiful natural environment, but it’s also important to take steps to protect it. To avoid environmental problems, it’s important to follow local rules and regulations, such as respecting wildlife and avoiding littering.

By researching the culture, customs, and language of Costa Rica, taking necessary health precautions, and taking common-sense safety and environmental measures, Americans can easily avoid potential problems while traveling in Costa Rica. With a little bit of preparation, Americans can have a safe and enjoyable trip to this beautiful country.

Playa Samara

Avoiding Costa Rica Scams

Preventing or avoiding Costa Rica scams 

Playa Samara

Playa Samara

Often I am asked what should I do in preventing or avoiding scams in Costa Rica. Some are easily avoided or prevented when you are armed with the right information. Before you go, let us review your itinerary and give you feedback on what we know. Our feedback is free and we do not have any affiliations with what we evaluate. Everything from car rentals to food. We have lived here for the past 15 years and have become very familiar with Costa Rica. 

Although our background is law and investigations, it has broadened our knowledge base on all types of scams and frauds. I feel if we can help anyone coming here from falling victim to a scam or fraud, they will want to come back. As you will learn some scams are not deliberate while others are as deliberate as they come.

 

Playa Samara

Travelling to Costa Rica?

Travelling to Costa Rica?

Each year we have a number of people who come to Costa Rica without talking with someone about their trip. I am not talking about a family member or a travel agent, I am talking about boots on the ground, living here and understanding the potential and real challenges you may face while travelling to Costa Rica.

First and foremost is the requisite documentation you will need to enter the country. Coming to Costa Rica can try your patience when meeting requirements set by the government. Since most of our guest come from the U.S. these requirements seem redundant and unnecessary. We are offering a review of your itinerary that will assist you in avoiding some of the pitfalls you will face when you visit here.

Documents You Need

The Costa Rica Government requires all visitors to complete a health questionnaire. Recently, the Government has rescinded the proof of private insurance for all visitors who are vaccinated. If you have not been vaccinated, then you will have to show proof of private insurance covering the time you are here. Also, you will have to financial resources to cover any quartine that may result from getting Covid. Additionally, you need to be prepared to take a Covid test no more than three days before your departure.

Services we Provide

Since these new regulations have come to exist it is important you are aware of the problems you may encounter. Everything from car rentals to hotels. Since we are here and are very familiar with all parts of Costa Rica and have handled numerous cases involving such problems, we invite you to contact us and let us look over your itinerary and evaluate possible areas of concern. The earlier yo do this the better chance we have in spotting potential and real problems that if addressed ahead of time will save you money, time and headaches.

Avoiding Fraud in Costa Rica

Identifying fraud in Costa Rica

Avoiding fraud in Costa Rica is really simple. I have written this information to assist you avoiding fraud in Costa Rica. I have put together a list of methods used here in Costa Rica to rip you off. As a result sammers will approach you through letters, a phone call, or via email. Cyber-crime is a principal priority risk for US residents and businesses. Because scammers will try to steal your property, identity or tap into your bank accounts or business to steal assets or money.

 

 

Typical scams to be aware of 

Avoiding Fraud in Costa Rica requires you to be aware of the methods scammers employ. In Costa Rica. Most attacks take place through email or social networks. I know no one is safe from hackers or scammers. Banks and even the government have been victims of such attacks. Because once you are a victim of this theft, it will be very hard to recover your information. As a result of your information being “out”, there’s no bringing it back.

Going After your life savings

The best defense I know against fraud comes with being able to recognize the various different types of financial schemes that exist. Because I have firsthand knowledge of these methods, I will share them with you.

High-return or ‘risk-free’ investments

High-risk/high-reward investments like penny stocks, options, and futures. I am suggesting, you exercise extreme caution when making any investment decisions. I have learned one way to protect yourself against fraud is to invest only in products or services that you understand and trust.  The United States Government has several scam warnings available to assist you in avoiding scams..

How do they operate here

Costa Rica scammers, passing themselves off as brokers and investment advisers, recommend unsuitable products. Products that don’t meet the investment objectives or financial situations of investors. Inappropriate recommendations might occur when a broker sells speculative, high- risk investments such as options, futures or penny stocks. Experience teaches me, individuals who are near retirement or are retired and have a low-risk tolerance.

Pyramid schemes

A pyramid scheme, for instance, the fraudsters promote multi-level entry opportunities that require an initial “investment”. In reality there is  little chance for profit except for those at the top of the pyramid.

‘Ponzi’ schemes

These are a type of illegal pyramid scheme named after Charles Ponzi. He fooled thousands of New England residents into investing in a postage stamp speculation scheme back in the 1920s. As a result, Ponzi thought he could take advantage of differences between U.S. and foreign currencies used to buy and sell international mail coupons. Costa Rica had it’s own form of a Ponzi scheme which was carried out by the Villalobos Brothers. The brothers scammed millions from unsuspecting investors. Villalobos investors he could provide a 40 percent return in just 90 days compared with 5 percent for bank savings accounts.

Results of a Ponzi scam

As a result Charles Ponzi successfully in getting funds from investors. This resulted in Charles bilking in $1 million during one three-hour period. Although a few early investors were paid off to make the scheme look legitimate. A subsequent investigation found that Charles had only purchased about $30 worth of the international mail coupons. Today, the Ponzi scheme continues to work on the “rob-Peter-to-pay-Paul” principle. As money from new investors is used to pay off earlier investors until the whole scheme collapses.

Promissory notes

A promissory note is a type of debt that is similar to a loan or I.O.U. and is used by a company to raise money. Typically, an investor agrees to loan money to the company for a set period of time. In exchange, the company promises to pay the investor a fixed return on the investment, typically principal plus interest. While promissory notes can be legitimate investments, those that are marketed broadly to individuals often turn out to be worthless. Most established companies have borrowing relationships with financial institutions.  Therefore this type of transaction among individuals is rare. Individual investors should exercise extreme caution with this type of investment.

Internet investment fraud

Internet investment fraud is similar to other fraud perpetrated over the phone or through the mail. Fraudsters use a variety of Internet tools, including online newsletters, spam or chat rooms to spread false information. They also may build a sophisticated Web page to make their scam appear legitimate. The Internet has made offshore scams very easy to implement and difficult to police because the perpetrators often reside outside of the U.S.

Affinity fraud

This fraud refers to investment scams that prey upon members of certain groups. For example religious or ethnic communities, the elderly or professional groups. Deceivers who promote affinity scams frequently are—or pretend to be—members of the group. They enlist respected community or religious leaders from within the group to spread the word about the scheme. Thus, by convincing people that a fraudulent investment is legitimate and worthwhile. Often, the leaders themselves become unwitting victims of the fraudster’s scheme.

Want to

For more information on fraud in costa Rica see “Different types of Fraud in Costa Rica, or call 321-218-9209.

Reasons for Hiring a Costa Rica P.I.

Here are some reasons for hiring a Costa Rica P.I.

International asset search

Here are some reasons for hiring a Costa Rica P.I.. Indeed divorces and legal cases are so common today, they are almost hard to avoid. But, there are other reasons when an asset might be important as well, such as part of a merger or international due diligence to verify a buyer or potential partner. Lawyers, individuals and companies use private investigators to find assets overseas. I know as I have found both bank accounts and physical property. Divorce and family law investigations if you suspect your spouse is cheating or hiding important information or assets from you. There are ways to tell if your spouse is hiding assets and a reputable private investigator can access records such as bank accounts you don’t know about or follow a spouse who has become distant to see if he or she is cheating. Before you hire someone, remember that a private investigator can help your attorney uncover evidence, if and when needed.

Infidelity investigations

Not knowing if your spouse is having an affair is a painful and devastating thing. Private investigators help with these unfortunate situations every day. A Costa Rica private Investigator can discreetly find out facts and information and uncover the truth so you know whether or not your spouse is guilty of infidelity. There is no evidence like photograph and video evidence from surveillance footage on your partner.

Dating background checks

Whether you met your Mr. or Ms. Perfect online or offline, these days it pays to be cautious. Accordingly, these are other reasons for hiring a Costa Rica P.I. How do you know the individual you met over the internet, or at a bar, is truly who he or she claims to be? You don’t. Clients rely on private investigation companies to conduct a comprehensive dating background check that verifies education, employment, address, criminal and court records, ID or passport, date of birth and more. Investigators also screen the case for fraud and identify risks.

Fraud/embezzlement investigations

You may wonder, should your company use background check investigations? The answer is yes — it can help prevent future problems. All too often, businesses find themselves in a situation where assets are missing, books weren’t kept accurately or bribes have been taken. P.I.s can determine if assets were fictitious, improper payments were made or whether there were other misrepresentations. Private investigators can also track down the guilty party through background checks, and asset searches uncover the money trail.

Romance scam risk

Now Online dating is a booming industry, consequently it has come a source of fraud and scams. Posting profiles and photos is simply and fast, and anyone can do it – even criminals hoping to scam you. Victims of romance scams lose more than money. Victims are often devastated financially and emotionally. Comprehensive background checks by real investigators are the best prevention to avoid dating scams. The truth is, anyone can be a victim and no dating site is 100% immune from romance scams. A Costa Rica P.I. can verify the truth behind the profile.

Employment or personal background check

If you hiring or dating internationally or even locally, false CV and backgrounds do occur and put your company at risk. Companies who are serious about protecting themselves and hiring only the best take these verifications seriously. Checking criminal records alone is not a prudent verification method, and certainly not an investigation. Professional investigators verify employment candidates in detail, and determine if the individual is competent and qualified, before

Business background check

A business, like a person, has a past and a culture and interacts with many people every day. However what you see may not truly mirror what the business is all about. Private investigators can research and investigate and deliver evidence that you’re doing business with a reputable entity.

Child custody case

You’re probably looking for tips on how to win custody of your child. To win a child custody case, you must uncover facts that are compelling – and admissible — in court. Private investigators can serve as a witness in a case and prove facts that are tough to prove on your own. Even a potentially difficult case can turn into a simple one at trial with the right facts and evidence.

Identity theft risk

Identity theft happens when a person’s personal information is stolen and the criminal then commits fraud or theft under that person’s identity. Unfortunately, investigators say identify theft is only getting worse — millions of dollars are lost every year as a result of identity theft – and hundreds of dollars and countless hours are spent trying to repair victims’ credit. Private investigators can help determine who stole your identity and can create a report for you to take to law enforcement. More importantly, expert investigators can advise how not to be a victim.

Document verification

Let’s say your case is fairly simple, and you have a copy of a passport, ID or documents that you need to verify the authenticity of. Despite your efforts, there is no way for your to verify if the document is real, and it may not even be in a language you can read. Luckily, international investigators verify passports, identifications and documents from around the world on a daily basis.

Pre Marital Checks

Marriage is a big deal, especially if it involves a foreign bride or groom. Don’t start the visa process without knowing the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth! An expert investigator can verify everything you know or think you know about an individual, before the wedding.

Investment scam risk

Investment scams these days, unfortunately, are a dime a dozen. Fraudulent websites, false companies and endless possibilities now target individuals and companies. High risk fraud zones are in countries like China and the United Arab Emirates, etc, but the threat is now global thanks to the internet. Costa Rica is rife with scammers and it behooves you to conduct a thorough due diligence before you sign anything. It’s more important than ever to properly verify with international due diligence.

Safe international hiring

For companies hiring here the reasons for hiring a Costa Rica P.I. who specialize in international cases can help a company or client develop a customized strategy to properly verify candidates. This goes beyond your standard international background checks, and can be a great solution for companies and individuals who need to know what they should verify, based on their unique situation and risk.A professional private investigator offers many reliable services to help in many situations – from criminal cases to infidelity to background checks. Just make sure you do your homework and deal with a company you can trust, with highly trained investigators on the ground where you need them. Services offered and quality of services vary dramatically from one company to the next.

Employment background check

If you hiring internationally or even locally, false CV and backgrounds do occur and put your company at risk. Companies who are serious about protecting themselves and hiring only the best take these verifications seriously. Checking criminal records alone is not a prudent verification method, and certainly not an investigation. Professional investigators verify employment candidates in detail, and determine if the individual is competent and qualified, before you commit.

Personal injury investigation

A private investigator knows the ways to win your personal injury lawsuit. He or she can find key witnesses and other information essential to win the case. A skilled professional can find photographs of the crash when the crash report is incomplete. Make sure to obtain the police transcription of the 911 calls too – sometimes he or she is the only witness.

Insurance fraud claims

Insurance fraud happens when an act is committed with the intent to obtain a benefit in which a person is not otherwise entitled. False insurance claims are filed with the intent to defraud an insurance provider and they cost billions of dollars each year. Insurance fraud claims range from stretching the truth to committing intentional damages or injury. Private investigators can help identify the truth. We photograph those suffering from leg injuries playing basketball, and so on. In some cases, investigators may even photograph a living person, who is supposed to be deceased!

 

Costa Rica Investigator

Hiring a Costa Rica Private Investigator

Before hiring a Costa Rica private investigator

 

Hiring a Costa Rica private investigator does not have to be a stressful or difficult process.  Before hiring a Costa Rica private investigator, I will share with you these simple steps as a guideline for locating the right Costa Rica private investigator. Today, it is easy to be misled, so it behooves you to thoroughly vett the PI before you retain them. I have assembled a few tips and guidelines to help you make an informed decision. These guidelines apply to me as well and I endeavor to make sure my clients have as much information as possible.

Licensing

There is no licensing system for private investigators in Costa Rica. Thus it is important to feel comfortable with the PI you select. No one in Costa Rica has a license to do investigations.  Unlike the United States where PI licensing is regulated on the state level. If the actual investigator does not possess a license issued by a state, then that tells you that this person is possibly unqualified to do investigative work.

Currently, the only states that do not require private investigators to be licensed are: Colorado, Idaho, Mississippi, South Dakota, & Wyoming

Always contact the appropriate state licensing agency to confirm an investigator’s license is current and in good standing prior to hiring them.

PI Firms vs. Individuals

One key choice in hiring a Costa Rica Private Investigator is whether to hire an individual or an investigative firm. Firms typically employ greater resources and are ideal for cases requiring large amounts of surveillance and manpower. Individual PI’s can often provide a wealth of knowledge with issues including the location of persons, background investigations, asset investigations etc.

Be sure to choose an investigator or firm that employs the necessary resources and prior experience to properly address your needs.

Hiring a Private Investigator

It is important to feel comfortable with the PI you choose as matters that require private investigation cases are often of a sensitive nature. Look for individuals who are able to think “outside of the box” and adapt to changing situations easily. Inquire as to signing a contract or agreement listing the private investigator’s services, fees, and terms. Make sure this agreement comes from the person or firm who is physically present in Costa Rica and is actually doing the investigation. This protects both parties.

Be sure to ask a potential investigator as many questions as possible. Use your judgment in selecting a PI. If your not comfortable with their answers, demeanor, or experience you should find another private investigator with who you are.

Questions to Ask Your Investigator

How long have you been in business?

How many cases of this nature have you handled?

What is your success rate with cases of this nature?

What are your rates and fees?

Will you provide me with a written contract?

Do you have experience testifying in court?

Do you take video of surveillance operations?

Can you perform covert surveillance as needed?

Can you provide a reference of an attorney you’ve worked for in the past?

Avoid Scams of Dating Services

Avoid Scams of Dating Services

To protect yourself against scammers and marriage fraud, read my below article and discover how you to avoid it. This is my thoughts how to avoid scams of dating services.I know that online dating can be a great way to meet new people, However, it’s also ripe with opportunity for scammers. I recommend awareness of the scams out there and taking steps to avoid them. As a result you can have a more positive online dating experience.This guide will teach you how to spot and avoid scams of dating scams that are online. I will cover everything from how to identify a scammer to how to protect your personal information. We’ll also give you some tips on how to stay safe while online dating. Scamming isn’t the only thing you have to worry about in online dating.

Don’t accept the first date offered.

Scamming isn’t the only thing you have to worry about in online dating. Here are some tips to help you have a relatively safe online dating experience.Online dating sites can be a little overwhelming. I read an article by Megan Ellis succinctly outlined the dangers in her article. With so many people to meet, it’s easy to fall into the trap of dating someone off of a profile, without first meeting them in person. Before you commit, ask yourself if you’re really interested. If you are, schedule a second (or third, or fourth) date.

Pay attention to your gut feeling.

Just because someone says they love the band you like, or, have the same politics as you doesn’t mean they’re being honest. If someone doesn’t seem right, don’t go out with them.

Be wary of long-distance relationships.

So, how do I Avoid Scams of Dating Services. If you’re in a long-distance relationship and want to meet your new love in person, don’t fall for the trap of online dating. Using the Internet to communicate will only make the relationship harder to maintain. If you don’t want to move in with your new love, you could be setting yourself up for heartache.

Don’t date someone you met on a dating website, unless you’re really sure it’s a safe, reputable site.

If you’ve met someone on a dating website and want to date them, make sure you research the site and check out reviews of it before you get involved. Scammers can use fake profiles to cheat people out of money, so make sure you meet in person at least once before you commit.

Be wary of people who want to buy you gifts or send you money.

This is another red flag and will help avoid scams of dating services. If you meet someone who offers you money, you should be wary. Don’t think of them as a romantic suitor and don’t get too cozy with them. If they ask you for money, you should be wary.

Don’t share too much personal information.

When you sign up for a dating site or app, be sure to keep your personal information private. Don’t share your address, phone number, or other personal information.

If you do give out this information, you’ll need to be careful. Scammers can use your information to steal your identity, so be sure to change your login information frequently.

Be careful when you’re talking on the phone.

If you’re talking on the phone with someone you just met or someone who just wants to get to know you better, be sure to meet in person. Don’t make any decisions over the phone. If you need to do something, do it in person and if you need to make a quick decision, ask the person to explain ASAP.

Always send a message to the person’s phone, not their email.

Many scammers use fake email addresses to scam people. If you receive an email from someone you just met, be wary. Ask for phone numbers and meeting times and check them out before you commit.

Don’t give out your phone number to someone you just met.

If someone you just met wants to chat on a dating app, don’t give them your phone number. Never, ever give out your personal information.

Be careful when you meet in person.