Internet dating is a great way to meet a wide variety of new people from all over the world. That exposure is internet dating's greatest asset and at the same time one of its biggest risks. Unfortunately, not everyone you meet on an internet dating site is who they say they are.

Those of you who are experienced internet daters will, in all likelihood, have come across scammers. For those of you who have only just joined, or who have had no contact, yet, with a scammer, you owe it to yourself to keep reading and learn more about the scum that play on men's and women's susceptibility

Simply put, internet dating scammers have only one mission in life; to part you from your money. They will exploit your compassion and don't give a toss about you personally, nor your family. The only thing they do care about is how much money they can scam you out of.

Victims of internet romance scammers come in all shapes, sizes and ages. Don't ever be so complacent or so smug as to think it can't happen to you. It can. Remember, scammers do this for a living. And they're very, very good at what they do.

Be aware of "picture perfect" photos. If they're just too good to be true, chances are the profile is a front for a scammer. The person in the photo is real enough alright; but the person in the photo is not the person behind the profile. That would be the scammer.

How do scammers go about persuading people to send them money? Unfortunately, quite easily. They weave a web of convincing lies that run the range from undying declarations of love, pages of poetry copied and pasted from internet poetry sites, and emails full of calamities like disfiguring accidents, terminal illnesses and even death.

They will not let up until they get what they're after; your money. The more, the better. When you're in contact with a scammer you can expect instant messages and emails around the clock. Since they care only for the money, and not you, they'll call you at all hours of the day and night should you give them your phone number.

There is only one solution when you're dealing with a scammer. Cease all contact immediately and block them from ever contacting you again. If necessary, change your email address and your phone number. Remember, everything they've told you is a lie; everything. As much as it may hurt, it was a fantasy built on deceit; nothing more.

This post was written by the writers of the Datepad.com free internet dating company where you can read thousands more helpful dating posts.