Someone I Met Online Asked for Money Before Meeting

These guides draw on official safety guidance, research, and common questions from people using dating apps. Read the scope and limits.

Stop before you send anything. The story may involve travel, a medical problem, a business emergency, a frozen account, or a promise to pay you back. The details can change; the boundary should not.

What to do now

  1. Do not send money, crypto, gift cards, documents, or wallet credentials.
  2. Do not click links they send or connect a wallet to a new site.
  3. Save the messages, profile, payment request, and transaction details.
  4. Tell someone you trust what is happening.
  5. Report and block the account through the dating or messaging platform.

Do not feel ashamed. Romance scams are designed to create attachment before the financial request appears. A request does not prove every detail about the person is false, but it is enough reason to stop the financial conversation.

Need a calm next step?

Run the private safety check.

It will not identify the person, but it can help you name the warning signs.

Start the free check

Questions people ask

Before you decide what to do

Should I send money to someone I met online before we meet?

No. Do not send money, crypto, gift cards, or account access to someone you have not independently verified and met safely.

What if they say it is an emergency?

Urgency and emotional pressure are common in romance scams. You can care about someone without becoming their financial solution.

Before you reply or meet

Want another look?

A few questions can help you spot what is making you uneasy before you move off the app, share personal information, or agree to meet.

Start the free safety check

RealAttraction.today is an independent resource and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by any dating app or service.