Online dating: 5 ways to avoid being scammed on dating apps
By Nancy Marende, December 2, 2025Online dating has become increasingly popular, offering a convenient way to meet potential partners. However, it also comes with risks, including scammers who exploit emotions and trust for financial gain.
Several high-profile cases have highlighted the dangers of online dating scams. Some victims have lost large sums of money or faced serious emotional trauma after falling for fraudulent schemes. By staying vigilant and informed, you can enjoy online dating while minimising risk.
Also watch: DCI warns Kenyans over dating-app robberies
In May 2025, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) issued repeated warnings about a troubling rise in violent crimes linked to online dating.
The agency revealed that robberies, assaults, and assaults disguised as romantic encounters are becoming common, often after victims respond to seemingly harmless matches.
To curb these incidents, the DCI urged the public to exercise heightened caution when engaging on dating apps and social platforms.
“To ensure your safety, it is crucial to protect your personal information. Avoid sharing any sensitive details, particularly financial information, with individuals you’ve only met online. Fraudsters are particularly skilled at creating emotional connections, which they then exploit to extract personal data that could lead to financial or personal harm,” the agency added.
Here are five practical ways to protect yourself while using dating apps.
1. Verify identity
Before getting too involved, confirm that the person you’re talking to is real. Use video calls, reverse image searches, or check their social media profiles to ensure their photos and information match. Scammers often create fake profiles with stolen images.
2. Be wary of money requests
One of the biggest red flags in online dating is someone asking for money, gifts, or financial help. Scammers often fabricate emergencies or use sob stories to pressure you. Never send money or share financial information, no matter how convincing their story seems.
3. Protect your personal information
Avoid sharing sensitive information such as your home address, workplace, bank details, or personal ID numbers. Scammers can use this information for identity theft or financial fraud. Keep conversations on the app until you are confident the person is trustworthy.
4. Watch out for fast-moving relationships
Scammers often try to build emotional connections quickly to gain trust. Be cautious if someone professes love or a strong attachment too early. Take your time getting to know someone before meeting in person or sharing personal details.
5. Trust your instincts
Listen to your gut. If something feels off, inconsistent, or too good to be true, pause the interaction. Block or report suspicious profiles immediately. Your intuition is one of the most effective tools for avoiding scams.