Falling victim to a romance scam can be devastating both emotionally and financially.
According to Federal Trade Commission data cited by luxury dating platform Seeking.com, online daters lost $1.14 billion to romance scams in 2023 alone
. The number highlights a growing problem across the dating industry as scammers increasingly use fake identities to build trust and steal money from unsuspecting victims.Now Seeking.com says it's using artificial intelligence and selfie verification technology to identify suspected fraudsters before they can join the platform, while urging other dating services to adopt more aggressive anti-fraud measures.
Looking for a dating platform with identity verification features?
Seeking.com says it uses AI-powered fraud detection and selfie verification technology to help create a safer
dating experience for members.
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How much money do romance scams cost victims?
According to Federal Trade Commission data cited by Seeking.com, online daters lost approximately $1.14 billion to romance scams in 2023.
Romance scams remain one of the most financially damaging forms of online fraud.
Seeking.com says its AI-powered fraud detection and selfie verification tools help identify suspicious accounts before they join the platform.
Learn more about Seeking's safety features
How is Seeking.com using AI to identify potential romance scammers?
According to Seeking.com, the platform uses artificial intelligence alongside selfie verification technology to help identify users who may be attempting to create fraudulent accounts. The company says these tools analyze factors such as facial verification, user behavior, and other signals that could indicate deceptive activity.
How Seeking uses AI
What is selfie verification on Seeking.com?
Selfie verification is a process that asks users to take a real-time photo during account setup. Seeking.com says the technology helps confirm that the person creating an account matches the photos associated with the profile.
How many scammers does Seeking.com claim to stop?
Seeking.com says its fraud detection system eliminates more than 90% of suspected scammers from the platform and, in many cases, prevents them from completing the signup process.
While avoiding scams is one part of the equation, many online daters are also looking for meaningful connections. Seeking.com highlights several factors that can contribute to successful partnerships in its guide to the science of extraordinary relationships.
What is Seeking.com?
Seeking.com is a dating and relationship platform designed to help adults connect based on shared goals, interests and lifestyle preferences. The company markets itself as a luxury dating platform and says it prioritizes member verification and safety features designed to reduce fraud.
Learn more about Seeking.com
How does Seeking.com work?
Members create a profile, upload photos, share information about themselves and browse potential matches. Users can communicate through the platform once they find someone who aligns with their relationship goals and interests.
Explore Seeking's Dating Scenes resource in your city to get a better idea of suggested date spots.
Does Seeking.com verify its users?
Yes. Seeking.com says it uses various verification tools, including selfie verification and AI-powered fraud detection, to help identify suspicious activity and improve user safety.
Seeking’s safety + security features
Who uses Seeking.com?
Seeking.com is designed for adults seeking relationships and connections based on shared goals, interests and lifestyle preferences. Like many dating platforms, its user base includes individuals from a wide range of professional, educational and personal backgrounds.
Read some real success stories from Seeking member testimonials here.
Is Seeking.com free to use?
Seeking.com offers account creation and basic features, but certain features may require a paid membership. Available plans and benefits can vary, so users should review current membership options directly on the platform.
How can you stay safe while using online dating apps?
Experts recommend:
- Using platforms that offer identity verification tools
- Being cautious when sharing personal information
- Scheduling video calls before developing trust
- Avoiding requests for money under any circumstance
- Researching suspicious photos or stories
- Reporting suspicious activity immediately
While technology can help identify fraud, online safety experts say vigilance remains one of the most effective defenses against romance scams.
Download the Seeking app
How to spot potential romance scams
Experts commonly recommend watching for these warning signs:
- Requests for money shortly after meeting online
- Refusal to meet in person or join video calls
- Stories involving emergencies, travel problems, or medical issues
- Requests for cryptocurrency, gift cards, or wire transfers
- Profiles with limited photos or inconsistent personal details
Consumers should report suspicious activity immediately and avoid sending money to anyone they haven't met and verified independently.
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This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Online dating scams cost Americans $1.14 billion. Can AI fight back?
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