Scam Detection Quiz: Can You Spot a Romance Scammer?

Test your ability to recognize common romance scam red flags with this 5-question educational quiz. Learn what to watch for and how to protect yourself.

Online romance scams are unfortunately common, but knowing what to look for can help you stay safe. Take this short quiz to test your knowledge of common scam warning signs. This is educational. It is not meant to scare you, but to help you feel more confident.

1. Someone you matched with asks to move the conversation to WhatsApp or another messaging app immediately. What should you do?

Move to the app right away — it is more convenient
Stay on the dating platform for now and be cautious
Give them your phone number so you can text
Stop talking to them immediately

2. Your match says they are working overseas on a project and cannot video chat for several weeks. What is the best response?

Accept the explanation and wait patiently
Send them money to help them finish the project faster
Be cautious — scammers often claim to be overseas to avoid meeting
Share your own travel stories to bond with them

3. After a week of chatting, your match shares a story about a sudden medical emergency and asks for financial help. What should you do?

Send a small amount to help — it is the kind thing to do
Offer emotional support but do not send money
Ask for more details about the hospital and doctor
Share your own medical experiences to show empathy

4. Your match\'s photos look professional, but they only have one photo on their profile. What should you check?

Assume they are just a private person
Compliment them on the great photo and move on
Ask them to share more photos or do a video call
Download the photo to use as your own profile picture

5. Someone claims to be a US citizen, but their messages have unusual grammar and they are always online at odd hours. What should you consider?

They might just be a night owl with poor writing skills
These could be signs the person is not who they claim to be
Offer to help them improve their English
Ask them what time zone they are in

Common romance scam warning signs

  • Too fast, too intense. Someone who declares strong feelings very quickly, before you have met in person.
  • Avoids meeting or video calls. Always has an excuse for why they cannot video chat or meet face-to-face.
  • Asks for money. Any request for money, gift cards, or financial help is a major red flag, regardless of the reason given.
  • Inconsistent stories. Details about their life, job, or background change over time or do not add up.
  • Poor grammar combined with unusual claims. While not definitive on its own, this can be a sign when combined with other red flags.

If you suspect you are being targeted by a scammer, stop all communication and report the profile to the dating platform. Do not feel embarrassed. Scammers are skilled manipulators. For more information, visit our Safety and Scam Prevention guide.