Look for the ID Verified tick
The quickest check is the ID Verified tick: members who verify their identity get the tick on their profile.
Verifying is optional, so a profile without the tick isn't automatically fake. But the tick is a strong sign that someone is who their photos say they are.
Scammers sometimes target people who've been bereaved
Romance scammers know that grief can leave people feeling lonely, and they may use that to win trust quickly.
They may be very sympathetic, say they've lost someone too, or talk about a future together very early on. Kindness is a lovely thing, but it isn't proof that someone is genuine. Judge people by what they do, not just what they say.
Red flags on a profile
- Photos that look too polished, like a model shoot, or only one or two pictures.
- A profile that could be anyone, with nothing personal in it.
- Details that don't match what they tell you later.
Red flags in conversation
- Any request for money, bank details or gift cards. However sad or urgent the story, including medical bills, a stranded trip or a family emergency, the answer is always no.
- Pushing to move off the site quickly.
- Very strong feelings, very fast. Talk of love before you've met.
- Always a reason not to meet or video call.
Never send money, share your bank details or buy gift cards for someone you've met online, even someone you feel you know well.
If you're worried
- Stop replying, and don't send anything.
- Report the profile on the site. The 24-hour Customer Success team is there to help by phone, live chat or ticket.
- If you've sent money or shared bank details, contact your bank straight away.
- Report it to Report Fraud (formerly Action Fraud) on 0300 123 2040. If you live in Scotland, report it to Police Scotland on 101.
Being scammed is never your fault. The Widowed Pond constantly monitors for non-genuine accounts and removes them, and every report helps.