If you do any kind of chatting or socializing online, you should be aware of some of the internet dating scams out there. The victims of these scams usually end up losing money, but they also suffer emotional damage; they are often left with a broken heart or a bruised ego. These scams are sleazy and awful. The scams usually take place on internet dating sites. It usually begins when a man or woman start talking to someone they met on one of these sits.

The scammer patiently lulls the victim into a false sense of security. They will communicate with each other long enough for the victim to develop strong feelings for the scammer. But at some point, the scammer will start talking about how they've hit on hard times. This is the direction that most internet dating scams go. They will usually make up some story about how they or a family member needs an expensive operation, or they might say that they won't be on the internet much longer because they can't afford the bills. Now that the victim cares about the scammer, he or she will often try to save the day.

Of course, that usually means forking over some money. Usually the victim wires the money over through Western Union or a similar service. Although the victim thinks they are helping out a friend in need, it isn't long before they realize that they've been scammed. Most of the time they never hear back from the scammer again. Sometimes there will be a 'thank you' letter and possibly a few more, but usually there isn't. It's a disgusting and pathetic form of deceit, but people engage in internet dating scams because it profits them. If you utilize internet dating services, be aware and watch for 'friends' asking for money, or hinting that they need help. The best thing is to simply never send money to anyone you haven't met. Don't become a victim.