Be cautious when affection turns into urgency
A request for money, gift cards or an investment can arrive after a long period of friendly conversation. The FTC advises against sending money or gifts to an online romantic interest you have not met in person.
Look at the pattern
Repeated reasons not to meet, inconsistent details and pressure to keep the relationship secret are reasons to pause. A reverse-image search may reveal a photo associated with another identity. No single check detects every scam.
Do not let a badge settle the question
A real, verified person can still act dishonestly. Realr checks specific details; it does not establish intentions or whether someone is single. Refusing to share a profile is also not, by itself, proof of a scam.
Get another perspective
Speak to someone you trust. If you suspect a scam, stop contact, report the account to the app or site, and contact your payment provider promptly if you sent money. Keep the messages and receipts.
Read the FTC guide to romance scams for warning signs and reporting steps.