Guarding yourself against romance scams requires both emotional awareness and financial caution. First, be alert to red flags such as someone professing love too quickly, avoiding in-person meetings, or asking for money or investment participation early in your relationship.

Conduct a reverse image search using tools like Google Images or TinEye to check if their profile photo appears elsewhere online—often, scammers reuse professional images or stolen social media pictures. For any investment opportunity, verify the person’s credentials with trusted resources such as the SEC’s Central Registration Depository, FINRA’s BrokerCheck, or your state’s securities regulator.

Avoid sending cryptocurrency or wiring funds to individuals you’ve only met online, as these transactions are nearly impossible to reverse. Never invest in something you don’t fully understand, and if you feel pressured, step back and seek advice from a trusted friend, family member, or licensed financial professional.

Finally, remember that legitimate love and business relationships will never require secrecy, urgency, or a rush to send money—if those elements appear, it’s a clear sign to walk away.