Dating apps have made it easier than ever to meet new people. But with convenience comes risk. Not everyone online is who they claim to be—and in some cases, the danger goes beyond hurt feelings.
From fake profiles and hidden criminal records to romance scams and financial fraud, online dating can leave people vulnerable. That’s why background checks have become a vital part of modern dating, especially here in Michigan.
Here’s what you need to know before swiping right.
The Rise of Online Dating—and Online Scams
More people are turning to dating apps than ever before. But scammers are turning to them, too.
According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), Americans lost over $1.3 billion to romance scams in a single year, making it one of the most reported forms of fraud.
Common tactics include:
- Gaining trust quickly
- Claiming to be overseas or in the military
- Asking for money or gift cards
- Disappearing once they’ve gotten what they want
A background check can help identify red flags before emotions (or money) are involved.
What Background Checks Can Reveal
Even a basic check can uncover important information, such as:
📋 Criminal History
- Arrests, convictions, or outstanding warrants
- Domestic violence or restraining orders
- Sexual offender registry listings
📍 Identity Verification
- Real name, age, and location
- Marital status (yes, some “single” people aren’t)
💼 Employment & Education
- Confirmation of job title, employer, or degree
- Cross-referencing public records with LinkedIn or other claims
💬 Social Media Activity
- Inconsistent behavior between platforms
- Signs of multiple relationships or misleading identities
As Verywell Mind points out, a pattern of secrecy or pressure to move fast are common signs of online deception—and a PI can help validate your instincts.
Why You Shouldn’t DIY It
Sure, you can Google someone—but that only scratches the surface. Many scammers are skilled at hiding their tracks.
Private investigators have:
- Access to professional databases
- Techniques to confirm or disprove identities
- Legal methods for gathering reliable information
Unlike DIY background checks, a PI’s background investigations is detailed, confidential, and court-admissible if needed.
Michigan-Specific Risks in Online Dating
While big cities like Detroit and Grand Rapids are hotspots for dating app use, scams don’t stop at the city line. In smaller Michigan towns, catfishing and identity misrepresentation can be even harder to detect due to a lack of public data or mutual connections.
That’s where a local PI with Michigan-specific knowledge makes a big difference.
Don’t Trust Blindly—Check First
Meeting someone new should be exciting, not risky. A background check isn’t about being paranoid—it’s about being smart. When love is on the line, you deserve to know the truth.
If you’re dating online in Michigan and want peace of mind before meeting someone, we’re here to help—discreetly, legally, and professionally. Contact us for a 100% confidential & discreet consultation! 4 Directions Investigations is a licensed private investigator in Michigan and a member of the Michigan Council of Professional Investigators with specialized training in photography, surveillance, research, and background investigations.
