Hayut, 31, allegedly stole $10 million from multiple women, though he maintains his innocence.
Some other recent dating scams:
Wondering if your latest match could be the next Tinder Swindler?
So its essential to be vigilant whenever someone captures your interest online.
Heres what to look out for.
Or theyre constantly traveling for international business.
The pandemic has given scammers even more excuses for not actually meeting.
Probably not as good as youd like.
It always seems like an uphill battle to build (and keep) a decent amount in savings.
But what if your car breaks down, or you have a sudden medical bill?
Ask one of these companies to help…
But anyone can claim to be a wildly successful entrepreneur or heir to a giant fortune.
If someone makes an outrageous show of wealth on a dating platform, be very skeptical.
Your odds of finding a billionaire on Tinder or Bumble are extraordinarily slim.
Their Pictures Are Generic
Another big warning sign is a single generic-looking photo.
Its easy for scammers to steal someone elses photos and use them to lure unsuspecting daters.
Still, be cautious about exchanging phone numbers or email addresses right away.
Did you know?
By convincing the match that theres an instant connection, its easier for the scammer to manipulate their victim.
He claimed he was being monitored.
At some point, a scammer is going to hit you up for money.
But if someone asks you money when youve never met or you only met recently, RUN.
Under no circumstances should you send them cash, gift cards or crypto.
Dont wire them money or fork over your credit card information.
Also avoid investing based on a tip they gave you.
Romance scammers will have elaborate stories of emergencies.
Theyll claim they were suddenly hospitalized or that theyre stranded abroad.
Because theyve forged an intense connection quickly, its easy to fall prey.
Dont buy in, no matter how persuasive they are.
Report them to the dating app or social media platform where you initially connected.
According to the FBI, about 24,000 people reported losing money to romance scams in 2021.
The actual number is probably much higher, as many of these scams go unreported.
Its essential to take action if youve been targeted by fraudsters.
Heres what to do if youve been scammed.
Unfortunately, recovering money from romance scammers often proves impossible.
But by reporting fraud, you could help other potential victims.
Finally, if youve been the victim of a dating scam, this isnt just a money matter.
On top of the financial fallout, youve got to heal from heartbreak.
One option isFightCybercrime.orgs peer support program, which offers free counselor-led group sessions.
you’ve got the option to also find resources for online safety.
Getting scammed on a dating platform doesnt mean your chances of love are doomed.
But take time to heal and educate yourself.
If you choose to give online dating another try, take it slowly.
Unmatch and report anyone who asks you for money or personal information ASAP.
Robin Hartill is a certified financial planner and a senior writer at The Penny Hoarder.
Send your tricky money questions to[email protected]or chat with her inThe Penny Hoarder Community.
(Can you sense my millennial sarcasm there?)
You know which ones were talking about: rent, utilities, cell phone bill, insurance, groceries…
