Common signs
- Photos that look too polished, or match other accounts in a reverse-image search.
- Instant intense affection ("love bombing").
- Refusal to video call or send a live photo.
- A crisis that needs money, gift cards or crypto.
- Asking you to move off-platform very early.
- Bio and chat that don't match, or copy-paste messages.
Crypto-specific scams
- Anyone asking you to "invest" or send crypto to them.
- Fake wallet addresses or "verification fees."
- Crypto payments can't be reversed, so never send money to someone you've just met.
What to do
Ask for a quick live video call or a timestamped photo. Don't send money. Report and block. See Guide 24 for blackmail and sextortion.
FAQs
How can I tell if a profile is real?
Video call, consistent details, no money requests.
What should I do if I've been scammed?
Stop contact, keep screenshots, report it to the platform and to Action Fraud (UK).
Are all fake profiles scams?
No, but treat them with caution regardless.