Online Sites Offer Connections That May Not Be Sweetheart Deals

I wanted to share a great article with our readers. Stacy has written for our blog in the past and is writing this on behalf of www.pplmediaroom.com.

Thanks,

Michael MCCoy

By Stacy Whelchel

Online sites offer connections Happy Valentines Day! In recognition of this day celebrating sweethearts, we are subject to not only numerous ads promoting the “perfect” gift for loved ones, but also online websites which offer services designed to find that special someone. However, profiles posted on single or dating sites are not always who or what they claim to be, says the Better Business Bureau.

The Bureau reported that oversea scammers are preying on consumers who seek connections through online venues. Thousands of victims have been tricked each year at a cost of millions of dollars.

The con artists use websites where they create fake profiles and use kind words to gain victims’ trust. The targets might even receive flowers and gifts, most likely bought using stolen credit cards. Unfortunately, since these criminals are overseas, it is more difficult to investigate and prosecute, according to the BBB.

The BBB says to avoid online relationships with those who:

* Only communicate through email, instant message and cell phone
* Are charming, understanding, flattering, sensitive, have a caring personality
* Have a career or life circumstances that takes him or her overseas
* Is quick to develop a relationship and talk about love
* Have a young child, typically a boy or girl between the ages of 5 to 12
* Have a sudden emergency, often involving a child's health
* Have a reason he or she cannot get money and need your financial help
* If you help them, they ask for more money

Caution is always advised when sharing any type of confidential data, especially with those sight unseen. If identity theft is a threat because of breached information, Pre-Paid Legal’s Identity Theft ShieldSM and its team of restoration experts will be there for you.