Nationwide building society has issued a warning to its customers about “red flags” to look out for online, after their own research has uncovered some concerning figures.
The company released an update saying it found that more than a third (36 percent) of people tell lies while using online dating services. The update said the most common lies included old and edited photos, “exaggerated” salaries, and lying about height or musical tastes.
Some 44 per cent of people would ignore warning signs and meet up with people they had only ever met online, according to Nationwide’s research.
They are now reminding their members to use Nationwide’s Scam Checker Service if they are worried, ahead of Valentine’s Day this Friday February 14, reports The Express.
The update continued: “While harmless embellishments are common, increased online activity brings with it a rise in scammers attempting to exploit people searching for their next relationship.
“The threat increases in February, with the research highlighting that almost a quarter of people (24 percent) feel under pressure to have a date around Valentine’s Day, while nearly three in ten (29 percent) admit to feeling lonely.”
Nationwide also advises that online daters should “watch out for love bombing”. This is when a scammer tries to win over their target with quick and overwhelming affection.
They also advised doing a reverse image search if you suspect a photo might be stolen. You should also never send money to someone you haven’t met in person, and report suspicious activity immediately, Nationwide said.
It added that some 27 per cent of dating singles say they have been contacted by someone pretending to be someone they’re not. Urging people to be extra cautious, Nationwide said that if something seems too good to be true, it likely is.