If you do any kind of chatting or socializing online, you should be aware of some of the internet dating scams out there. The scams are terrible. Most of the time the victim ends up losing his or her hard-earned money. Oftentimes the victim is left with a bruised ego at best, a broken heart at worst. The scams usually take place on internet dating sites. It usually begins when a man or woman start talking to someone they met on one of these sits.

Most of the time, they communicate back and forth long enough for the victim to develop some sort of feelings for the scammer. Internet dating scams usually follow this pattern: Once the scammer has gained the victim's trust, he or she will begin talking about financial troubles. The scammer will probably make up a sad story about how they will be losing their internet connection soon because they can't pay the bills. Or, they might talk about how a family member needs medical help that they can't afford. Having grown to trust and care for the scammer, the victim usually does whatever they can do to help.

This usually involves sending money to the scammer, most often through Western Union or some other wire transfer system. The victim thinks that they are doing something good for their friend, but most of the time after they have sent the money, they never hear back from the scammer. Sometimes the scammer will send a letter or two of thanks, perhaps, but more often than not the victim won't even see this much. It's a disgusting and pathetic form of deceit, but people engage in internet dating scams because it profits them. So watch out. If you're using an internet dating service, be alert and don't get taken in by 'friends' who need money or drop hints about needing help. You can avoid becoming a victim: Just don't send money to someone you have never met before.