April 30, 2024 By Pieter Arntz
The FBI has warned of fraudsters targeting users of dating websites and apps with “free” online verification service schemes that turn out to be very costly.
Instead of being free, as advertised, the verification schemes involve steep monthly subscription fees, and will steal personal information on the side.
The scammers collect the information entered by victims at registrations and use it to commit further fraudulent activity such as identity theft or selling the information on the dark web. The stolen information may include email addresses, phone numbers, and even credit card information.
The scam works like this: The scammer initiates contact on a dating website or app, but then quickly asks the victim to move the conversation to a more private, encrypted platform.
Once there, the scammer will recommend a verification link that supposedly provides protection against predators like sex offenders and serial killers. This verification website asks the victim to provide their name, phone number, email address, and credit card number to complete the process.
After completing the registration, the victim is redirected to a shady dating site that charges hefty monthly fees to the victim’s credit card. These charges show up on the credit card statement as a company the victim has never heard of.
