Dating apps are supposed to be fun. Flirty. Maybe a little chaotic.
Not… criminal.

But a recent report from KTLA highlights a growing threat users need to know about: “sextortion” scams targeting people on dating platforms.

What’s actually happening?

According to local authorities, scammers are posing as attractive matches on dating and social media apps. The playbook is fast and calculated:

• They match with you

• Things turn flirty quickly

• They push for explicit photos or videos

• And then the switch flips

Suddenly, you’re being threatened: pay up, or they’ll send those images to your friends, family, or followers.

This type of scam—known as sextortion—isn’t new, but police say cases are rising and often originate on dating apps before moving to texting or other platforms.

Why it works (and why it’s not your fault)

These scammers are good at what they do.

They’re not just random bots—they build quick emotional trust, create urgency, and exploit a moment when someone lets their guard down. In many cases, victims are manipulated within minutes.

And once an image is sent, scammers use fear and embarrassment to keep victims quiet and compliant.

So let’s be very clear:
Falling for this doesn’t make someone naive—it makes them human.

Red flags to watch for

If you’re dating online, keep an eye out for:

• Someone pushing intimacy way too fast

• Requests to move off the app immediately (WhatsApp, Snapchat, etc.)

• Profiles that seem too perfect

• Pressure to send photos or “prove you’re real”

• Threats or aggressive behavior out of nowhere

If anything feels off, trust that instinct.

What to do if it happens

If you (or someone you know) gets caught in a sextortion scam:

• Do not pay (it often makes things worse)

• Stop responding immediately

• Save evidence (screenshots, usernames, messages)

• Report the account on the app

• Contact local authorities or the appropriate reporting channels

And most importantly, tell someone you trust. These scams thrive on silence.

Want a deeper dive on staying safe?

We broke down even more tips, tricks, and real-world examples in our guide to spotting online scams. It’s worth the read.

We’re all here for the butterflies, the banter, the “should I text them back?” energy.

Not blackmail.

At OBC, we’re all about keeping things fun and safe—so you can focus on meeting real people, not dodging scammers.