Dating for gay people around the world is still in the growth phase. Although every day we hear about Human Rights, and tolerance, and acceptance, etc, the truth is that for many people homosexual relationships are still a sin or an immoral thing and unnatural.  In Russia, being gay is not something to be proud of publicly as the government has taken a hard stance against gay rights.  Russia even implemented a new anti-gay propaganda law to keep the groups from rising onto the public stage.  In this environment, why is it then that gay online dating scams are booming in Russia?

Even in countries like the U.S. and Canada, going to a romantic dinner with someone from your same sex will, at least, cause some awkward glances and some negative comments. Some gay people don´t feel comfortable yet with others being judgmental, and it is difficult to live openly. The results? Many gay people prefer to date online and keep their lives private from the offline world.

Online dating also has risks

Online dating represents for a big portion of the gay community a unique space, where nobody will discriminate, where they can meet friends and hang out without anyone. The Internet gives them an opportunity to live a different life with some level of anonymity, one where they can be authentic. And this is certainly great!  But, as more in the gay and lesbian community are realizing, taking to the Internet is not risk free either.  In fact, gays are now a major target online.

For those who have decided that they will be looking for love online, the first question they ask is: Where? Which online dating sites? What people would I like to meet? Foreigners maybe?   What many don’t know (but soon find out) is that profiles are easy to fake.  Russians don’t represent a huge gay community, but Russian scammers are tech savvy, and they go where the money is.

What can you do to stay safe?

How can you protect yourself from scammers and liars? How can you get to know someone without giving out too much of your personal information? How do you keep safe and out of trouble? There´s plenty of information on how to avoid an online romance scam. Start by reading it!

While it is true that some people successfully find good, lasting relationships on online dating sites, it is also true that many end up frustrated, disappointed, heart-broken and financially broken. There are scammers out there on the other side of the world waiting just for a victim like you.

Russian dating scams are very popular within non gay relationships, so people are getting more aware of that. But for gays and lesbians, these kinds of scams are new. Some are vulnerable because they have become a good, profitable target for Russian scammers. This is the case of new online dating users.  Russian scammers hope to hook you in and get cash and gifts, so beware of fraud.

If you meet someone from Russia who is requesting money, get a background check! A local Russian private detective will help you uncover the truth. It is the best way to verify whether this person is legit and needing some help or just another scam. If you have already identified scammers that are trying to target you on the dating sites, do not get down on yourself or feel like you are a loser. Everyone on a dating site is exposed to the risk. Just block the person and report it.   And remember, Russian scammers don’t always say they are from Russia, they might claim to be Mr. or Ms. Perfect living right down the street.  If you meet someone online, get a professional background check!

Online dating can be a lot of fun, when you stay skeptical and safe.

C. Wright
© 2014 Russia PI™

© Copyright 2014 Russia PI.  All Rights Reserved.  This content is the property of Russia PI, LLC and is protected by United States of America and international copyright laws.