The online dating world has its own set of warning signs. As an Afro-Caribbean single using apps or social media to find love, being able to spot digital red flags will protect you from heartbreak and scams. Here are some big ones to watch out for:
The Mysterious or “Too Good to Be True” Profile
Does their profile have only one photo that looks like a magazine model? Or almost no bio info? Red flag. Experts say scant profile details or overly edited photos often indicate a possible scammer. Trust your instincts, if a profile feels fake, it probably is. Catfishes also tend to avoid video chats or spontaneous selfies. They will make excuses (“camera broken” or “too shy”), a sign they might not be who they claim.
Love-Bombing Texts and Fast-Forwarded Intimacy
Getting flooded with sweet messages and declarations of love within days of matching can feel flattering but be cautious. Scammers and players both use love-bombing to reel people in fast. If someone you have never met is calling you “my queen” and talking marriage, that is a red flag, not a fairy tale. Similarly, if they push to move the conversation off the app immediately or get very personal very quickly, be wary. It is often a tactic to avoid the app safety monitoring or to create false intimacy.
Vanishing Acts (Ghosting and Bread crumbing)
One minute they’re messaging nonstop, the next they disappear for days without explanation. Consistent communication matters, erratic patterns might mean they are juggling other people or not serious. Ghosting (suddenly cutting off contact) unfortunately is common, but if someone repeatedly goes hot and cold on you (a little trick called “bread-crumbing”), consider it a red flag for future inconsistency.
Requests for Money or Favors
This is a huge one: never ignore hints of financial woes or requests for help. If your online crush starts telling sob stories, a sick relative, a lost wallet, a business deal gone bad ,and especially if they ask for money, it is almost certainly a scam. One common ploy is to build trust over weeks, then suddenly need cash for an “emergency.” Do not fall for it. As one safety expert says, as soon as money comes up, cut off contact.
Gut Feelings of Unease
Even through a screen, your intuition can pick up weird vibes. Maybe their stories do not quite add up, or they dodge basic getting to know your questions. If anything feels off, step back. You are never obligated to continue talking to someone who raises your suspicions.
Staying alert online doesn’t mean you have to be paranoid, it just means being smart. By spotting these red flags early, you can swipe with confidence and focus on the genuine connections out there.
Sources: theguardian.com