Online dating is a great way to meet new people and find yourself a date or even a potential life partner. But you’ve got to be careful out there because some people can be on the site for the wrong reasons and could end up taking advantage of your vulnerability. While others may only be interested in sex, or may even be desperate to get married. It takes all sorts to make the world but exactly what warning signs should you look out for to avoid these sort?

Listen to Your Instinct
If something seems dodgy and your gut tells you there’s something fishy going on, trust your instincts. Sometimes we try and convince ourselves that the person we’re interacting with is a genuine person and push the nagging doubts away. But if your mind keeps insisting you read the signs, I’d suggest you listen to it!

Inconsistent Stories
Did they suddenly move from Melbourne to Sydney or is that just your imagination playing up? But then didn’t they say Auntie Jane was sick last week so when did that become Auntie Jill? If their stories sound inconsistent, you’re probably not imagining it and this person might not actually be who they tell you they are.

Offensive Behaviour
Most dating sites have a code of conduct the members are expected to follow but if the person you’re talking to is abusive, constantly makes sexual remarks or does anything else that seems inappropriate to you, stop talking to them and report them to the site’s administrators immediately.
No Photo
Not having photo doesn’t automatically make someone dodgy or suss but be a little wary. While they pretend to be someone else, let them not rob you blind…of your heart and your cash! They might be scammers or they might just be someone lying about their appearance. If a no photo profile also gives you some of these other signals, it doesn’t take rocket science to figure this one out.

Requests for Money
If they’re asking for money, this is probably a scam. No matter how much you think they’re in love with you, they’re probably just trying to make a quick buck. My advice? Never send any money (no matter how desperate the reason sounds!) and report the user.

Giving Out Personal Contacts
Most of us are a little wary giving out personal contact details but if the person you’re chatting with is a little too eager about revealing all their contact details, be a little cautious. Ask yourself: Why can’t they just interact using the site’s communication features?

Instant Love
Sure love at first sight happens but it’s very unlikely; love at first chat, even more so. If they’re professing their undying affection for you, they’re a) trying to scam you or b) really desperate. I’m pretty sure you don’t want a relationship with either.

Insecurity and Commitment Issues
You’ve barely spoken to this person a couple of times, and already they’re insecure and trying to track your every move offline and online? Stay away! They’re really desperate and would probably get married online if it was possible! On the other hand, if someone you’re chatting with repeatedly tells you they’re not ready for commitment, you should know they’re not looking for anything serious. If you are, then this is not the person to pursue further.

Constant Pressure
If they’re constantly pressurising you and hurrying you to do something or the other, you should be wary. You should be able to give out your contact details, talk on the phone or meet when you’re comfortable. You don’t have to give in to their pressure and should probably keep your eyes open when interacting with this person.

General Behaviour
Sometimes the signs may not be staring you in the face so you’ve got to keep your guard up. Does their overall behaviour make you feel like something’s not right? Or maybe what they do and say is telling you they’re the clingy, desperate, insecure type? On the other hand if they keep telling you they’ve just been separated and aren’t looking for a relationship, you know what to do right? Everyone isn’t commitment-phobic, desperate to fall in love with you or even a scammer, but it doesn’t hurt to keep an eye out for trouble does it?

There are good ones and there are bad ones – online and offline. Learn to interpret the signs and you’ll be alright.