https://www.shazam.net/news/shazam-blog/love-at-first-sight-or-scam/
Many people turn to dating sites when looking for a new relationship. And while most individuals are genuine in their intentions, fraudsters flock to dating sites hoping unsuspecting users will swipe right on their fake profiles. Luckily, a reverse image search can help you investigate whether it’s love at first sight or a scam.
What is a reverse image search?
Scammers often use fake photos to strike up a love connection to gain a person’s affection and trust. The scammer uses the illusion of a romantic or close relationship as a way to steal money.
A reverse image search allows people to upload a photo on a dating site profile into a search engine, like Google, and check it against every photo across the internet. It will often reveal the true source of the image. It isn’t a full-fledged guarantee it will reveal a scammer, but if your search results reveal multiple profiles using the same photo, it could be a sign your new crush could be a scammer.
Conducting a reverse image search on a computer
1. Go to images.google.com and click on the camera icon.
2. From this window, a person can either upload an image from your computer, drag an image into the gray box, or paste the image link into the search bar.
Conducting a reverse image search on a mobile device
1. Open the Google app or go to images.google.com
2. Enter your search query in the search bar. A detailed description of the photo or the person’s name will result in a better search result.
3. Tap the image you want to use in your reverse image search.
4. In the corner of the enlarged image view, tap the Google Lens icon. It’s the gray circle with a camera in the bottom left-hand corner of the image.
5. Google sets its default lens on what it believes is the focus of the photo. If there are multiple people in the photo, drag the corners of the box to highlight the person in question. The results will be updated based on your selection.
Additional warning signs
The criminals who carry out romance scams are experts at what they do. They seem to be genuine and caring just to pull the rug out from under you once they get want they want. Protect your heart and your financial accounts with these additional ways to spot and avoid romance scams.
About the Author
Mike Burke is a veteran law enforcement professional with experience in criminal justice instruction, homeland security and fraud investigation. He guides SHAZAM clients to enhance their security measures and ensure regulatory compliance.
Courtesy of SHAZAM.NET
