The #1 rule (from the FTC)

Never send money or gifts to someone you haven’t met in person.

Romance scammers build trust through chat, then invent emergencies (medical bills, plane tickets, visas, family crises) and ask for money. Once you send it, it’s usually gone. The FTC’s guide to romance scams spells this out clearly—we’re not affiliated with the FTC; we link to it because it’s authoritative and free.

Six habits that help you stay safe

#1 Verify before you trust

Do a reverse image search on their profile photo (e.g. Google Images or TinEye). If the photo appears under another name or on stock/image sites, it’s a red flag. Also look for the verified selfie (Beta) badge on OtterHalf—it means we’ve verified that the person’s photo matches a live selfie.

#2 Stay on the app until you’re ready to meet

Scammers often want to move you to text, email, or another app quickly. Keep the conversation on OtterHalf while you get to know them. When it feels right, a phone or video call before meeting is a good reality check. If they refuse to meet or call and only want to text, that’s a warning sign. More in our Safe Dating Advice.

#3 No investment or crypto “advice”

Real dates don’t tell you where to invest or how to buy crypto “together.” If someone pushes investments, crypto, or “helping you make money,” it’s a common scam. Report them in the app and stop talking to them.

#4 If it sounds too good to be true, it is

Scammers promise quick, dramatic improvements to your finances or life. Never share bank details, passwords, or anything that could give access to your accounts—especially with someone you haven’t met.

#5 Say no to any request for money

No matter the story—visa, surgery, family emergency, travel to see you—don’t send money, wire transfers, gift cards, or crypto. The FTC and other agencies consistently warn: scammers ask for gift cards, wire transfers, and crypto because they’re hard to reverse. If money comes up, report and move on.

#6 Slow down and check with someone you trust

Scammers rush you so you don’t think. Before sending anything or making a big decision, talk to a friend or family member. You can also search online for the type of story they’re telling plus the word “scammer” (e.g. “oil rig scammer,” “military romance scam”) to see if others have reported the same pattern.

How to report

On OtterHalf: From their profile, tap the three dots → Report and choose the reason. You can also email support@otterhalf.app.
If you sent money: Contact your bank, card issuer, or payment app right away and say you were scammed. They may be able to help with a dispute or fraud claim.
Report to the FTC: File a report at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. It helps the FTC track scams and warn others.

For more on staying safe on and off the app—including meeting in person, protecting your account, and what to do if something goes wrong—see our Safe Dating Advice.