It’s not all love and happy endings
Anyone who has dated a foreigner can tell you that international love has many perks. You learn about new cultures and get exposed to new ideas that no other relationship could ever offer. Colombia is a favorite for people seeking such romance, and it is not so hard to see why. They have some of the most beautiful women in addition to the diverse culture, which makes dating quite the experience.
However, love and learning are not all that is in the cards for you should you choose to go the Latino way. As with any other foreigner dating experience, there is always the risk of getting scammed.
We will take you through 6 easy tips on how to keep yourself safe from Colombian dating scams as you pursue love abroad.
Use trusted Colombian dating websites and services
These online dating services do a good job of vetting members. Vetting ensures that you don’t get exposed to catfish profiles or any other Colombian scammers in the online dating community. You can always gauge a site’s ability to protect you by consulting testimonials and reviews and by going through their antiscam policies.
Reputable Colombian dating sites include LatinWomanLove.com, ColombianCupid.com, and other trusted sites you can read about here.
Friendly online sleuthing just to be sure
It is not super wise to put all your trust in the site alone. You need to take matters into your own hands and do some digging yourself. No, this does not give you the license to become a full-on online stalker. However, a little snooping to see if the person’s stories check out will not hurt anyone.
Get face to face; whatever it takes
That is the oldest rule in the book when it comes to online dating, and it will go a long way to help you avoid Colombian dating scam when dating in Colombian. Insist on that video call even when they keep finding new excuses to turn you down. If you can afford it, you should also consider planning a trip to visit this person with whom you are so enamored.
Keep that wallet tucked away
It is a slippery slope as far as finances and online dating someone from Colombia or anywhere long distance for that matter. Once you start sending money, it is nearly impossible to stop. One moment you are sending shopping money as a birthday gift to your beau and the next thing you know you are supporting their bereaved family. You need to learn to say no.
Encourage reciprocity
If you want to know whether or not your Colombian partner is as invested in the long-distance relationship as you are then this is something you need to insist on. You cannot be the one calling all the time, visiting all the time and sending money. It needs to go both ways otherwise you are probably going to end up getting scammed.
Look out for red flags, and act on them
The good thing about dealing with Colombian online dating scammers is that it is not exactly rocket science. If you are vigilant, it is very easy to pick up on certain clues and red flags that will tip you off that something fishy is going on. Sometimes it is just a gut instinct. Whatever it is, make sure to run as far as possible as soon as your spidey senses warn you too.
Conclusion
Before you panic and give up on dating foreigners all together, you should know that these Colombian scams are few and far between. For the most part, the men and women that you will meet on these sites are genuine characters equally interested in the international dating experience. If you are diligent and you use trustworthy channels, it is highly unlikely that you have anything to worry about. Read our Colombian dating guide and start dating safely.
