You may or may not have heard of internet dating scams, but if you do any socializing online, you should know what they are. 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.

The scammer bides his or her time. They chat or send messages just long enough for the victim to grow attached to the scammer and trust him or her. 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. Although the victim thinks they are helping out a friend in need, it isn't long before they realize that they've been scammed. Most of the time they never hear back from the scammer again. Sometimes there will be a 'thank you' letter and possibly a few more, but usually there isn't. Internet dating scams are a disgusting and terrible to pull on someone, but they are still widespread. 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.