Online Dating Scam Investigations

Online dating investigations

Once seen as an unusual way to meet the love of your life, these days more and more of us are online dating. It makes sense – our whole lives seem to be lived largely online, and it is easy to get swept up in meeting that perfect someone who seems too good to be true.
Of course, the problem is that sometimes, they actually might be.
Online dating is a great thing, but feeling suspicious of someone you have not met in person is completely natural. Whether the relationship is romantic or platonic, it is vital to find out if the person you have invited into your life is who they say they are. But how can you possibly know?

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Online dating investigations

involve a private investigator (PI) seeking to uncover the true identity and intentions of a romantic partner met online. These investigations can include background checks, social media analysis, reverse image searches, and even surveillance to confirm or debunk a suspect's claims.

Here's a more detailed look:

Background Checks:

PIs can verify a person's identity, age, employment, marital status, and criminal history to ensure they are who they claim to be.
Social Media Investigations:

Analyzing social media activity can reveal inconsistencies or hidden details that might raise red flags.
Reverse Image Searches:

PIs can use reverse image searches to determine if a person's profile pictures have been used elsewhere, potentially indicating fraudulent activity.
Surveillance and In-Person Verification:

In some cases, a PI can discreetly observe a person's whereabouts, employment, and daily activities to confirm their claims.
Financial Investigations:

If a suspect is requesting money, a PI can investigate their financial history to determine if their requests are genuine or part of a larger scam.
Internet Dating Investigations:

This involves gathering information across multiple platforms, tracing messages back to their sources, and providing evidence to the police to prevent future fraudulent activity.

Online Scams Signs to look out for

The commonly used name for someone claiming to be a different person online is a “catfish”. This person may be using somebody else’s photographs and a false name, while acting as though they truly hold this other identity. Their goal is to manipulate you emotionally by building intimacy and trust, and then often asking for money.

While no one likes to think that someone they are forming a relationship with is a catfish, there are some signs you should be aware of. These include:

The person seeming to have no presence online linked to their name.
Finding evidence that their photographs and name do not match.
They ask for money early on in your relationship, or do so repeatedly.
They seem to be moving quickly from casual to very intimate.
They claim to have an illness or repeated terrible events in their life.
They tell you conflicting stories or stories that seem far-fetched.
You cannot get them to meet up or even use video chat.

If you encounter any of these scenarios, you may be talking to a catfish and should proceed with caution. How can you confirm your theory? We understand that you will not want to ruin a potential relationship by airing your suspicions, and you might not have the tools to investigate further. It may be time to call in the experts.

Catfish investigations

At National Private Investigators, we are skilled in carrying out investigations of all kinds, including online. Initially, you will discuss your situation with a friendly and understanding case handler, who will gather all the details necessary to get the answers you need. After this, one of our highly trained ex-military private detectives will carry out a comprehensive background check on the person in question, as well as multiple other avenues of investigation. Working discretely, your investigation will not be exposed at any point. Once it is complete, you will receive a written report, most likely including evidence of a real life identity, and if it matches the person you know. If the investigation is inconclusive, you will still receive a written report.

Why get an Online Investigation?

Protecting Yourself:

Online dating scams can be emotionally and financially damaging. A PI can help you make informed decisions about your relationship and protect yourself from potential harm.
Verifying Claims:

A PI can verify the information provided by your online partner, ensuring they are telling the truth about their identity, background, and intentions.
Detecting Red Flags:

A PI can identify inconsistencies or red flags that might indicate a scam, helping you avoid becoming a victim.
Gathering Evidence:

If you suspect a scam, a PI can gather evidence that can be used to report the scam to law enforcement.
Protecting Other Potential Victims:

By identifying and exposing scammers, PIs can help prevent others from being victimized.