Most people you meet online are exactly who they say they are. But scammers do exist, and they tend to follow familiar patterns.
Common warning signs
- They move fast: intense compliments or talk of love within days.
- They avoid meeting: always traveling, overseas or "about to visit."
- They want to leave the app quickly for a private messaging service.
- Their story has gaps, or details change over time.
- Money comes up: an emergency, a fee, a ticket or an investment "opportunity."
The golden rule
Never send money, gift cards, crypto or financial details to someone you haven't met in person, however convincing the story.
Quick checks
- Do a reverse image search on their photos.
- Suggest a short video call before meeting.
- Talk it over with a friend; an outside view helps.
If something feels off
Stop replying, block them and report the profile. On VYBE, reports go straight to our moderation team, and blocking is always free. If you've lost money, contact your bank right away and report it to the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov.
