How to Avoid Sextortion Scams: Protect Yourself in Online Dating
In today’s digital dating world, sextortion scams have become a rising threat—and they’re as damaging emotionally as they are financially. Sextortion happens when someone tricks or manipulates you into sharing intimate images or videos, then uses them to blackmail you. This form of abuse is especially dangerous because it often begins on dating apps, where people feel emotionally vulnerable and trusting.
Knowing how to avoid sextortion scams is crucial for your online dating safety, especially when forming new connections with strangers.
🧠 What Sextortion Looks Like
Scammers usually pose as attractive, flirty individuals who are quick to move conversations off dating platforms to private apps or social media. They often push for explicit photos or videos early on—sometimes even initiating live video calls. Once they have compromising content, the threats begin: pay money or the material will be shared with friends, family, or the public.
These criminals prey on fear, shame, and isolation. But you have more power than you think.
🚩 Dating Scam Warning Signs to Watch For
- They rush intimacy – Wanting to swap explicit content or engage in sexual chats soon after connecting.
- They avoid in-person meetings or video chats with clear face visibility.
- They push you to switch platforms quickly to WhatsApp, Snapchat, or others.
- They refuse to share verifiable personal information—or give vague, inconsistent answers.
- They threaten or pressure you when you hesitate to engage in sexual content sharing.
🔐 How to Protect Yourself in Online Dating
1. Never share explicit content with strangers—even if they seem genuine.
Once an image or video is out of your hands, you lose control over where it goes.
2. Verify who you’re talking to.
If someone is hesitant to show their face live on video, or gives inconsistent personal details, it’s time to walk away. Knowing how to verify someone online can prevent you from falling into a trap.
3. Don’t let flattery blind you.
Sextortionists often use emotional manipulation, praise, or flirtation to lower your guard. Real relationships build over time—not in a few hours of chat.
4. Take screenshots and block/report the user immediately if things seem suspicious. Most platforms have reporting tools for a reason—use them.
5. Don’t pay. Don’t negotiate. Don’t engage.
If you’re being threatened, stop all contact and report the incident to local law enforcement and the dating app. You are not alone, and there is romance scam help available.
✅ Quick Takeaways
- Stay cautious, especially early on in any online relationship.
- Trust your instincts—if something feels off, it probably is.
- Don’t be afraid to say no and protect your boundaries.
- Always prioritize your privacy and emotional safety.
If you’re tired of the risks and guessing games of online dating, it’s time to try something different. Trusted & True is building a dating experience based on real identity, verified profiles, and true privacy.
👉 Join the movement here
https://trustedandtrue.net/join-the-movement/
