The Cost of Looking for Love: IDShield Reports 7 out of 10 Dating App Users Scammed with Most Losing More than $10,000

• Surprise: Men fall victim more than women
• But…93% will return to dating apps again
• No surprise…AI-generated profiles pose growing threat

New survey data released by the nation’s leading identity theft protection brand, IDShield, found a staggering 7 out of 10 Americans who use dating apps have been scammed, losing money and risking their identity.

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New survey data released by IDShield found a staggering 7 out of 10 Americans who use dating apps have been scammed, losing money and risking their identity. (Graphic: Business Wire)

The survey, conducted on behalf of IDShield, a brand of LegalShield, polled more than 270 people who have used a dating app in the past three years.

"Our survey shows that most people swiping right and left are getting swindled, but they keep coming back for more,” said Warren Schlichting, LegalShield CEO. “Love may be blind, but users don't have to be blindsided if they take steps to protect themselves before setting up a profile."

The findings depict an online dating scene plagued by fraud and manipulation, leaving those looking for love vulnerable to more than just a broken heart.

• Financial Loss: Six in ten victims of scams lost more than $10,000, with 64% disclosing personal and financial information that was subsequently used against them.
• Identity Theft: 69% of respondents were asked to verify their identity to someone on a dating app, with 65% divulging their Social Security numbers.
• Repeat Victims: 63% of people have been scammed more than once on a dating app. Despite the prevalence, 93% of users say they will continue to use dating apps.
• Gender Disparity: Men are falling victim more frequently (74%) than women (61%).
• AI Threat: An overwhelming 90% of online daters are suspicious that their online matches are AI-generated profiles. People are skeptical of AI safeguards offered by dating apps, with 56% saying they only trust those tools somewhat or not at all.

"In the quest for love, dating apps have become prime targets for scammers. To stay safe, users must adapt, recognizing the evolving tactics of digital fraudsters," said Steve Earls, IDShield’s head of consumer data security. "With AI advancements, trusting instincts alone is risky. Treat every match as a potential threat, prioritizing personal security by guarding sensitive data and leveraging digital monitoring tools for added protection."

Dating app users identified the most common scam tactics they encountered:

• “Long distance dilemma”: Pressuring victims to send money for planned visits (72%)
• “Love bombing”: Showering a match with excessive affection followed by requests for money or favors (60%)
• Financial manipulation: Claiming fake emergencies or investment opportunities (54%)
• “Catfishing”: Using fake online personas used to manipulate users emotionally (50%)

IDShield offers comprehensive support, including licensed private investigators to aid members in restoring their identities, with unlimited consultations and live representative assistance.

By adopting proactive measures and staying vigilant, online daters can increase their chances of finding love online while safeguarding their personal information from scams and identity theft.

About LegalShield:

For more than 50 years, LegalShield has provided everyday Americans with easy and affordable access to legal advice, counsel, protection, and representation. Serving millions, LegalShield is one of the world’s largest platforms for legal, identity, and reputation management services protecting individuals and businesses across North America. Founded in 1972, LegalShield, and its privacy management product, IDShield, has provided individuals, families, businesses, and employers with tools and services needed to affordably live a just and secure life. Through technology and innovation, LegalShield is disrupting the traditional legal system and transforming how and where people receive legal guidance and services, with access to thousands of qualified, trusted attorneys and law firms. LegalShield and IDShield are products of Pre-Paid Legal Services, Inc. To learn more about LegalShield and IDShield, visit LegalShield.com and IDShield.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240307150330/en/