Online dating can feel like a modern-day treasure hunt—you’re scrolling through profiles, hoping to strike gold. But let’s be real, for every charming and genuine person, there’s a handful of catfish, commitment-phobes, and red-flag-raising characters lurking in the digital dating pool. Some people find their soulmate with a single swipe, others end up dodging catfish, scammers, and downright weirdos.
If you want to avoid wasting time, energy, and possibly your sanity, keep an eye out for these major online dating red flags.
1. The Profile is a Ghost Town
If a profile is missing key details—no bio, no job listed, and only one blurry selfie from 2012—it’s a big ol’ red flag. A person who’s serious about finding a connection will put in the effort to fill out their profile. If they can’t be bothered, you probably shouldn’t be either.
2. The Too-Good-to-Be-True Syndrome
If their profile sounds like it was written by a rom-com scriptwriter—think world traveler, CEO, model, and humanitarian all in one—pause and take a breath. If someone seems too perfect, they may be stretching the truth (or full-on catfishing). Trust but verify!
3. No Recent or Clear Photos
You don’t need to be a detective to know that blurry, outdated, or heavily filtered photos scream “something’s off.” If someone refuses to share a recent, unedited pic, it could mean they’re hiding something—or someone.
4. Love Bombing from the Start
Did they call you “baby” before you even exchanged last names? Are they talking about your future wedding after three messages? This isn’t romance; it’s a manipulation tactic called love bombing. Real connections take time. If they’re rushing, they might have an agenda.
5. They Avoid Video Calls or Face-to-Face Meetings
If they always have an excuse to dodge FaceTime or in-person meetups, they might not be who they say they are. Whether they’re catfishing or juggling multiple people, this red flag should make you hit the brakes.
6. They Have an Excuse for Everything
Flaky behavior, constant cancelations, and dramatic last-minute emergencies? 🚩🚩🚩 If they can’t keep a simple coffee date, imagine what a long-term relationship would look like. Reliability matters!
7. Their Communication Style is Off
Are they sending you novels one day and ghosting you the next? Do they respond with one-word answers, making you carry the conversation? Communication consistency is key in any relationship—don’t settle for mixed signals.
8. They Try to Move Things Offline Too Fast
While it’s great to transition to texting or meeting IRL, if they’re pushing to chat outside the app immediately, be cautious. Scammers often do this to avoid being reported.
9. They Ask for Money or Personal Information
If they start hinting at financial struggles or needing “help” with an unexpected expense—RUN. Never send money or share personal details with someone you just met online. If they’re asking, they’re likely scamming.
10. They Have a Sob Story for Everything
A rough childhood, a cheating ex, a tragic loss—some people use sob stories to manipulate others. Of course, real hardships exist, but if their life sounds like a soap opera, they might be trying to exploit your sympathy.
11. They Talk About Their Ex Way Too Much
If your match can’t stop talking about their ex—good or bad—it’s a sign they’re not over them. You’re looking for a partner, not to be someone’s therapist.
12. They’re Overly Secretive or Vague
If they dodge basic questions about their job, lifestyle, or past, it could mean they have something to hide. Honesty and transparency are key in any relationship.
13. They Insist on Meeting at Your Place
A first date should be in a public space—not your house. If they push to meet at your place or theirs, they might have less-than-honorable intentions.
14. They Try to Make You Feel Guilty
If they guilt-trip you for setting boundaries, taking things slow, or saying no, it’s a major red flag. Healthy connections are built on respect, not emotional manipulation.
15. Their Social Media Presence is Nonexistent (or Suspiciously New)
Not everyone is active on social media, but if their online footprint is mysteriously absent—or their profiles look freshly made—it’s worth a second look. Scammers and catfish often create fake accounts with minimal details.
16. They Only Message Late at Night
Are they always unavailable during the day but suddenly pop up at 11 PM? They might be in a relationship, hiding something, or just looking for a booty call. Know your worth!
17. They’re Rude to Others
Watch how they talk about people—whether it’s an ex, a waiter, or a stranger in their story. If they’re rude, dismissive, or condescending, that energy will eventually be directed at you.
18. They Avoid Answering Direct Questions
If you ask where they work, how long they’ve been single, or where they’re from, and they give vague or dodgy answers, something isn’t adding up. A solid match won’t shy away from basic details.
19. Their Stories Don’t Add Up
One day they say they’re a firefighter, the next they’re an IT consultant? If their details keep shifting, it’s not a memory issue—it’s a lying issue.
20. They Pressure You for More Than You’re Comfortable With
Whether it’s meeting up sooner than you’d like, getting too personal too fast, or pushing for intimacy—pressure is never a good sign. A good partner respects your pace and comfort levels.
Final Thoughts: Trust Your Gut
Online dating is an adventure, but that doesn’t mean you should ignore your instincts. If something feels off, trust yourself. The right match won’t leave you questioning their motives or making excuses for bad behavior.
So, keep swiping smart, set boundaries, and remember—you deserve a connection that feels easy, safe, and fun! Happy dating! ❤️
Always,
Kerri
