Chris's article

Polygamist families and polyamorous lovers already demonstrate a capacity to march to the beat of their own drum. The narrow expectations of society have little effect on the good and fulfilling choices being made in the lives of poly people. Along with this individuality comes an ability to explore oneself deeply and approach inner desires without fear. Curiosities about your partner’s, or your own, sexuality are inevitable. People that are romantically involved need to discuss sexuality without barriers or judgment. It can be difficult if a partner surprises you by saying they might be bisexual, or only bi curious, but helping them explore their passion will bring you closer together. 

I use the terms bisexual and bi curious for simplification. If you are involved with someone, heterosexual or not, the news that they have sexual desires you are not familiar with, and maybe don’t share, can be hard to swallow. There are many morally sound sexual persuasions out there and they should all be handled with respect. You should not be with someone to hold them back, especially when they invite you to share their journey. 

In the poly world, a polygamist family with sister wives seeking sexual fulfillment from one husband may be most harshly affected by a variation in sexuality. When a man finds a sister wife the sexual relationship is with him. If a sister wife expresses sexual feelings toward another sister wife it seems to throw the relationship off balance. One could say the sister wife should have expressed these feelings before joining the family, but sexual attraction can develop over time. She may have never felt this way toward another woman before. Should the family evolve to allow this? 

The answer is yes, but, few things are so simply black and white.

If your family is religious and your religion does not allow anything but heterosexuality the situation is grim. Expressing your desire can come with implications as heavy as being asked to leave. Finding the balance between protecting your family and your life, and not living in the dark, is much more difficult when you have to do it alone. Don’t let secrets chip away at your happiness. Do not hesitate to find a counselor or friend that will help you address the issue and mitigate any damage as much as possible. 

If you are not heterosexual due to a religious requirement consider yourself fortunate. Being a polyamorous person means you’re very likely to encounter variations in sexuality and can learn to address them respectfully and according to your persuasions. If you’ve looked for a new sister wife and really like a potential candidate that says she is bisexual it’s really a whole new world you can explore. The same goes if you are a sister wife and your husband expresses sexual attraction to a man. A strong relationship will help explore new feelings and ideas rather than making each other bottle it up inside or feel shamed. The same open mind that makes the beautiful world of polyamory possible is needed when a partner expresses new desires. 

The unfamiliar can seem scary or even gross. Don’t let childish reactions prevent the potential joy of something new. Before diving in it may be best to specifically discuss things you want to try or maybe role play to build some familiarity. Sexy talk about new ideas during sex can help with arousal when the time comes. If one of your partners expresses interest in exploring with someone of the same sex you may have another partner that would enjoy them with you. Polyamorous people can form group relationships quite easily and many even prefer a closed group.  

Many people, even polyamorous people, are only heterosexual. Many polygamist men will seek sister wives that only want to enjoy him sexually. Many polyamorous relationships are simply heterosexual people that enjoy sharing love and sex with more than one person. There is absolutely nothing wrong with any of this. It would be hypocritical though to treat variations in sexuality with anything but full support and respect. If you love someone enough to maintain a relationship with them you should also love them enough to fully accept everything about them. 

The world does not need to be grim. Narrow minds do not have to prevail when it comes to acceptable sexual inclinations. Sex should be fun! Plural relationships make opportunities for fun multiply endlessly. It seems silly needing to express the importance of open minds to polyamorous or polygamist people, but it’s very easy to dismiss new things when you’re too comfortable with your status quo. Never stop spicing up your life. Find sister wives or polyamorous lovers with open minds and let the adventures begin!

Published By: Sister Wives 

Matchmakers Inc 

As happy days go by in your polyamorous or polygamist life it’s easy to forget about the inevitable changes coming in the future. All sister wives will face uncertainty when a husband finds a new sister wife to court. Any partner will feel a twinge of jealousy when a new love interest presents itself. There is real fear in not knowing what to expect. The best way to approach new relationships alongside your existing one will be a little different for everyone. Different people will struggle with different factors. Being prepared requires introspection and the ability to communicate your feelings honestly and without judgement. 

Imagine you’re out having a fun night in a busy club. You and your partner have been chatting with attractive people and enjoying a dance with them when your favorite songs come on. You felt some attraction but haven’t considered expressing that attraction but suddenly notice your partner is making out with one of your new friends. It can initially be shocking and hurtful but it’s important to approach the situation logically. Have you discussed the rules in situations like this? Have you set up basic standards to follow when you do find another interest? Are these actions meant to be hurtful to you or is it naive fun that’s crossed a line, in your opinion? 

In a polygamist family this situation is somewhat unlikely as a man seeking a sister wife typically finds them in other ways. However, in many polyamorous relationships, a night out as described above is not an uncommon occurrence. It’s important to consider you shouldn’t be too angry over rules being broken by someone that didn’t know the rule existed. There is outright rude and disrespectful behavior and there is behavior in which the perpetrator may have no idea they’re being hurtful. This is why discussing practices and standards is so important with your poly partners. Comfort levels are diverse. Knowing your partners comfort levels is key to respecting their boundaries and making sure everyone stays happy. 

Even in a polygamist family the same standard of communication is important. A husband dating a new sister wife needs to be aware if certain behaviors are going to unknowingly hurt an existing sister wife. It cannot be expected that no romance be allowed in new polyamorous situations so be reasonable in your demands. It is equally unfair to make demands that could prevent any new relationship forming in addition to your own. If you find yourself unable to handle your partner having romantic involvement with another person you may want to reconsider being a sister wife or your involvement in a poly relationship at all. Polygamy and polyamory don’t follow normal monogamous standards. They require an open heart and mind. 

Talk to your partners. Every sister wife and every polyamorous person has feelings that deserve respect. The conversation doesn’t have to be heavy or serious. It’s fine to discuss things in hypothetical terms simply to reveal the feelings of everyone involved and form standards that respect everyone as well. As a sister wife you even have the benefit of other involved women to run ideas by first. The important factor is that you’re not keeping your feelings to yourself. Being prepared for, and ahead of, difficult situations will get your love life back on track handily. Celebrate your polygamist family or polyamorous love life. Love without limits is a beautiful thing.

Published By: Christopher Alesich

Matchmakers, Inc - Sisterwives.com

It’s that time of year when red hearts and specialty chocolates greet you at your favorite stores and florists are gearing up to sell millions of roses. Valentine’s Day is a time to celebrate your love and appreciate the joy your love brings. Those in the world of polyamory have a lot of love to celebrate and multiple opportunities to be creative and make it a perfect day. Whether you’re preparing a surprise or planning magical moments together, don’t forget to make your Valentine’s Day unique to you and the loves of your life. 

If you’re a polygamist family it may be time to have a special dinner at home with all the sister wives being treated to a catered meal or maybe a big dinner out. Don’t stick them doing dishes! You could also spread Valentine’s through the week and find personal time to spend with each of your love’s. This time of year brings a lot of attention to finding a date so it’s a great time to find a sister wife. Women wanting to be a sister wife will have an extraordinary story to tell if she can join the whole prospective family for a special dinner on Valentine’s Day. She’ll also have wonderful insight on the dynamics of a happy polygamist family and how she might fit in. Sister wives and Valentine’s day are a recipe for beautiful moments and memories.  

Polyamorous relationships are especially fortunate with the opportunity this time of the year presents. With no limit to one lover and the freedom to forge your own traditions, outside of narrow expectations, one can create unique and unforgettable moments. Bringing two, or more, separate lovers together for a special evening can be fun and enlightening. Events with other polyamorous groups are always a great time. Exploring new possibilities is a perfect way to celebrate the love you already know. Mix it up and have fun on this day of romance! Do know and be respectful of your partner’s boundaries. Not everyone likes to mix things up or be surprised. 

There are plenty of poly people that have no interest in Valentine’s Day. Keep in mind that even if you’re not a fan there is nothing wrong with acknowledging the day and doing a little something to make sure your lovers know you care about them. Few people truly enjoy being completely left out of a tradition. If you insist on protesting Valentine’s Day at least come up with another special day. Celebrating love is too important to ignore. Keeping it simple with a small gift is always touching. Small moments and gestures can have incredible impact.

If you have the great fortune of finding a new sister wife this time of year, or of bringing together two of your lovers, count yourself a lucky soul. Few get to know the beauty a polygamist family experiences or the happiness polyamory makes possible. Maybe you already have everything you need. Celebrate it. Make your Polygamist Valentine’s Day or Poly Valentine’s something to remember. You’ll never regret your efforts and multiplying love is always a good idea. Happy Valentine’s Day!

Published By: Christopher Alesich

Matchmakers, Inc - Sisterwives.com

Polygamy and polyamory are all over media lately. The possibility of forging your own relationship style promises lives that were previously left to only wild imaginations. Acceptance of women who choose to be sister wives and of people that choose to maintain multiple lovers is widespread and it allows opportunity for happiness previously unheard of. When ideas are trending it’s easy to buy into the hype. New things sound so exciting! Even with the amazing experiences a poly lifestyle can bring there are difficult times and situations to be considered. Polygamy and polyamory are not for everyone. If you believe either is right for you here is a helpful process to help you be prepared.

The first step is consideration - 

What are the real motivations behind your desire to find sister wives or to date multiple people? If sex is your core drive you should take a step back and determine if you’re ready for any relationship at all. Having multiple sexual partners doesn’t have to involve commitment and it’s important to be honest with your encounters about your motivation. If finding a sister wife or multiple relationships appeals to a deeper sense of being whole your approach to dating will need to reflect your ideas of building close connections with prospective partners. Either approach is valid and you need to know where you stand. 

Your family, friends, and maybe even current lover can be daunting hurdles when you consider adopting a polyamorous or polygamist life. It’s devastating if you’re already involved in a relationship and they refuse the life you want to explore. Your family and friends may not be able to accept your choices. Ultimately, the choice is yours, but affecting other lives negatively is no good way to begin. If you know you cannot be happy in a fully monogamous lifestyle you will need a game plan.

The second step is planning - 

Before you can start searching for a sister wife or poly date you have to prepare yourself and anyone around you that will be affected. Telling your wife you’d like to find a sister wife might seem impossible but it has to be done and the fallout has to be dealt with. You’ll regret it far worse acting autonomously if you’re already involved in a relationship. Your family and friends can come later but the early plan has to involve transparency and honesty with current lovers. If you’re shut down you have to return to step one and decide how much its worth to you. 

Once your plan to reveal yourself as a polyamorous or polygamist person is in action you can begin planning your approach. Determine exactly how you want your family or relationships to be and find the aspects that will fulfill your heart’s desires. Once you know where you stand it’s time to begin your search.

The third step is implementation - 

During the planning process you’ll come across several options for approaching a polyamorous life. Being an active member of a poly community, online or IRL, will be one of the biggest sources of support and appropriate options for dating. Be clear with people, and in your profile, about what you’re looking for and be open to new ideas. It’s rare we don’t evolve as we become more familiar with things. Learn as much as you can from every encounter and always give back by sharing your experiences with others. Building your relationships and new friendships will be an award in itself. Eventually you’ll have the home or relationships you worked hard to achieve.  

The fourth step is sustaining - 

Finding sister wives to build a polygamist home is an exciting process. Maintaining that home should also be something that brings everyone involved joy. Finding multiple lovers of any sort is greatly rewarding and should continue bringing joy for years to come. Working together to resolve issues and providing an environment of love and understanding will make all of your efforts worth it. Never forget your days back on step one when considering your deep desires and the love and understanding you needed to fulfill your life. Times may come when someone you love has to follow their heart away from you. Don’t make it more difficult than it already is. Love is a complicated thing and not every relationship has to be forever. Be the person you’ve needed others to be in every situation. 

Being a sister wife or in any polyamorous relationship is rewarding if it’s right for you, but with great things comes great responsibility. There are more hearts to handle carefully and situations can be more complicated with more people involved. It takes a strong person to successfully maintain a polygamist or polyamorous life. Is it right for you?

Published By: Christopher Alesich

Matchmakers, Inc - Sisterwives.com

Plenty of men enjoy the idea of many women in their lives. It’s natural for men to desire the continuation of their name and legacy. Polygamy offers a path to having multiple women committed to a man and, if so desired, many children to call him a father. A polygamist family has its rewards but comes with big responsibilities. It takes a man that’s ready for major challenges to bring together and maintain a happy polygamist family. Before a man begins seeking sister wives there are factors to consider to ensure both he and the women he encounters are prepared for the road ahead.

The financial realities of supporting multiple wives weigh heavy on a polygamist family and home life. If a man is not earning enough income one or more of the wives will need to work. If each sister wife wants to be a homemaker the stress of working outside the home will be difficult. By making your financial situation clear with potential sister wives up front they can decide if working is a sacrifice they’re willing to make. Many women today prefer to work but women interested in traditional polygamy often enjoy the more traditional life of being a homemaker. Setting realistic financial expectations gives everyone the power to choose what will work for them. 

Relationships between women is very different than the relationship between men and women. A man that wants sister wives needs to be prepared for the struggles that will develop between them. As the center of a successful polygamist family the man must approach every situation fairly and with the ability to listen and understand each side of every issue. Some men find just one wife to be a lot to handle. It takes a special kind of man to hold together multiple women as loving sister wives. Some men simply try to be controlling and make decisions based on their personal feelings but is that really the way to keep your family happy? Being a loving and supportive husband is a huge factor in any family’s success. 

Polygamist families don’t have to be traditional. There are many ways a man can have multiple partners and each relationship can be molded to fit the individuals involved. Sister wives can all live separately, together, have more than one man, or enjoy intimate relationships with women as well. It’s important to be open minded and clear with potential partners about expectations. A man may find he enjoys his sister wives all having very different lives. He may even enjoy one core relationship with others kept separate. Compromises and exceptions can be made along the way when two people want to be involved and they’re being truthful about what makes them happy.

Finding a sister wife can seem so difficult it’s easy to start making too many compromises and straying too far from what you really want. Don’t focus on meeting as many women as possible. It’s better to meet a handful of women that suit your desires than hundreds that will never be a good fit. Come up with a list describing your perfect polygamist family and prioritize the factors from most important to least. Don’t discount every woman that doesn’t meet every priority but use the list as a guide to ensure you aren’t straying too far from what works for you. You might even share the list with potential dates and compare it to their ideals.  

For most people the best resources to find sister wives are online. Having complete profiles and plenty of photos to share will expose you to more quality and relevant options. Whether you’re a couple, family, or single man looking to date polygamy minded women you’ll want to provide enough details for the right ones to find you. Staying active and responsive on a polygamy dating site will attract promising prospects. Start searching today for that perfect sister wife to start growing your happy family.

Published By: Sister Wives 

Matchmakers Inc

A common accusation launched at the myriad of polyamorous people is that they essentially are sexual deviants incapable of loving and being satiated by one monogamous lover. Polyamorous men simply can’t ‘keep it in their pants’. Poly women must have daddy issues. The absurdly uninformed opinions of people opposed to any polyamorous lifestyle can become very cruel very fast. How could you possibly love someone you’re not solely committed to sexually? 

It’s human nature to oversimplify ideas in order to reach some understanding even when the understanding reached is completely inaccurate. Love is a broad term that comes in many forms and ‘true love’ is not limited to family connections or monogamous commitments. Love between two people in a polyamorous relationship may or may not involve sexuality at all! The relationships we build with people we love have limitless and deeply personal possibilities. 

A woman thats wants to be a sister wife may have very little interest in a sexual relationship with the male core of a polygamist family. She may be relieved that another sister wife satisfies that need. She may also be a lesbian that desires a non-sexual relationship with a male while enjoying a sexual connection to her sister wives. There is simply no box the ideal relationship can be neatly packed into then delivered to every doorstep.

Imagine a woman that enjoys sex immensely but has no interest in a romantic relationship. She can meet one or more partners that share her sex drive as well as her disdain for romance. To the outside world it’s easy to call these sexual partners only ‘friends with benefits’ but that assertion completely disregards the amount of love the partners may have between them. Not everyone is interested in being woo’d into a socially approved romantic situation. This does not equate to a lack of ability to love. 

Learning to express and live by your true desires in healthy and honest ways will lead you to true love the way it’s meant to be for you. Respecting the choices and boundaries of everyone around you helps ensure we live in a world where true passion can be followed. Some level of love is present in all personal relationships. Sex is a factor that may not even play a role in our CORE relationships. Sex could also be an exhaustive factor among many polyamorous lovers, which is a beautiful thing. Moral judgments of relationship’s based on sexual inclinations only works to damage the connection between two or more people. Don’t tarnish another’s love with your words.

If a woman wants to be a sister wife, respect her. If a man wants to find sister wives, respect him. If a person wishes to maintain a sexual relationship with 20 partners, respect them. Nobody owes anyone their happiness to ensure we’re conforming to narrow arbitrary standards. What’s love got to do with polyamory? Damn near everything. Sex is just an optional cherry on top.

Published By: Sister Wives 

Matchmakers Inc 

Money can make or break a person. Too little, or too much, money is one of the largest factors determining a  life’s outcome and often there is little an individual can do about their financial standing. In monogamous relationships money is among the top causes of a breakup. There are few statistics available that give a clear picture of money’s influence in polyamorous relationships. Poly people tend to be well educated and more open minded leading one to believe money trouble may not bring harm to relationships so easily, but, money has a way of bringing great joy or terrible pain into every walk of life. 

Financial stability is the overall goal. Avoiding the big ups and downs money can bring will provide a sense of peace. It allows you to focus on your lovers, relationships, and personal goals. Whether you seek many lovers, seek to become a sister wife, would like to find sister wives, are looking to date a couple, or whatever polyamorous lifestyle suits you, it will be difficult if you’re not financially sound. Protecting your solid foundation is equally important regardless of the relationships you find. 

Say you begin to date a potential sister wife. She has wanted to be a sister wife for a long time and has worked hard to ensure she has much to offer her new polygamist family. She knows her new family is likely to desire she focus on building the home and she wants exactly that. It would be unconscionable to simply take her money and absorb it into the family funds with no protections of her contributions. Prior agreements to protections can be made in case of an unfortunate separation later down the road. Take the time to work out details with a sympathetic and supportive attorney. Working out the details during the good times is vital to ensuring nobody is unfairly harmed in a separation. 

Outside of traditional polygamy there is a vast world of diversity in polyamorous relationship lifestyles. Many polyamorous people, myself included, choose to maintain private finances. A number of issues can be avoided by keeping money separate in a relationship (of any type). In reality financial situations are as diverse as the many forms of polyamory. A partner may be incapable of working, works only seasonally, needs to stay home for child care. Nesting partners may choose to join finances in order to simplify their home life or purchase property together. A wealthy lover may not want their partners to work at all! Here is another great article on poly finances along with real life stories. Regardless of the situation it is important to protect yourself from possible unfortunate circumstances in the future. The same rule applies. Work out details beyond verbal agreements while life is good. 

On a lighter note. Dating is expensive even for monogamous people. Polyamorous dating can add up much faster! Courting multiple sister wives or keeping up with three different dinner dates a week is expensive. This is where transparency and creativity will benefit your love life. Cheap date ideas are fun because you can build new and original experiences together. It’s also easier to go on cheap group dates everyone will enjoy if you develop a fun plan all together. Dinners at home, hiking trips, afternoons on the beach. They all become more exciting when everyone contributes something more than money. 

Love will always win over money because money truly does not buy happiness. Lack of money makes happiness more difficult but not impossible. With a smart and respectful approach to finances in polyamorous relationships you can ensure your lovers and yourself avoid unnecessary harm. Creativity and planning joined with love and support leads to incredible lasting joy. Whether you want to be a sister wife, want multiple lovers, or seek a polyamorous home life, money will be an important factor to consider. A little personal planning now will have you prepared for an exciting love life ahead of you.

Published By: Christopher Alesich

Matchmakers, Inc - Sisterwives.com

Polyamorous people enjoy a variety of possibilities for incredible home lives. Every individual involved in a poly relationship can carve out their own place within the relationship according to their needs. This leads to families looking very different from nuclear families often expected by society. There will be struggles finding exactly the right fit for everyone but with some give and take you can paint your perfect family. Love, trust, respect, and understanding are key.

Some poly families are very traditional in their own way. Women that seek becoming a sister wife often expect a strong male influence at the core of a polygamist family. Polygamist home life typically involves women working in family support roles. Women interested in being a sister wife usually prefer and enjoy this lifestyle and a good man can lead an amazing traditional polygamist family. Finding polygamy dating can be difficult but there are resources out there. Sister Wives is one excellent option. 

Many poly families are less interested in traditional family and gender roles and are more focused on equality. A man with two bisexual women can feel complete comfort with the idea they are also sexually involved. Being honest about your desires and open about your family’s desires is vital to maintaining a happy home. The same goes for a family involving two or more bisexual men. If everyone is enjoying, loving, and supporting each other your home life can be simply incredible. Take it from this kid raised by very open poly parents. “I Grew Up in a Polyamorous Household.”

The financial aspect of a poly household is another huge potential bonus. Three or more adults all chipping in on a house opens up access to many more options along with more hands keeping the place in order. The more the truly merrier! If two couples date each other they may live separately or even share two or more homes with the other couple. Taking advantage of the numbers in your poly family can pay off handsomely. 

On the other hand there are people that prefer a more solitary life. Finding a poly family or multiple lovers that are also more solitary can work great for the fulfillment of love and alone time. A poly family with a partner that prefers living alone can provide just the right amount of love and family time without overwhelming anyone. Multiple partners that live alone but are seeking love and a familial group of lovers should have no trouble not spending so much time together. 

Trouble arises when individuals attempt to force themselves into situations they’re not really cut out for. A sister wife will not do well dating a polyamorous loner. It’s easy to experience new relationship energy that pushes you into making poor choices. Remember to always step back and investigate your true desires before getting yourself or others hurt. Respect the wishes of everyone you date and be clear about yours. Seldom do we get everything we want but you can come close. Not every relationship has to last forever. It’s important to enjoy dating and be open for any fitting opportunity.

Published By: Christopher Alesich

Matchmakers, Inc - Sisterwives.com

Online dating has opened up incredible opportunities to meet new people, whether you’re looking for a traditional relationship, a polyamorous partnership, or exploring something in between. Millions of singles use apps and websites to connect with others every day. Unfortunately, along with the genuine connections, there’s also a darker side: catfishing.

Catfishing occurs when someone pretends to be someone they’re not, often by using stolen photos or fake information, to mislead others into an online relationship. Sometimes the motive is money, sometimes it’s boredom, and other times it’s simply the thrill of deception. Whatever the reason, the impact is very real. Victims of catfishing often experience wasted time, deep embarrassment, broken trust, and even financial loss.

The rise of dating apps has made this phenomenon more common than ever. Studies show that millions of people every year encounter suspicious profiles or outright scams. Financial losses from romance-related scams have now reached over a billion dollars annually. These scams are particularly devastating because they don’t just take people’s money, they prey on emotions and vulnerability. For communities that get sudden bursts of attention, such as those connected to reality TV shows or niche dating cultures, the influx of new members can also attract a wave of catfishers who see an opportunity to take advantage.

That makes it more important than ever to understand the warning signs and learn how to protect yourself.

Red Flags to Watch Out For

They refuse to video chat

One of the clearest signs that someone isn’t who they say they are is a refusal to appear on video. While it’s normal for people to be camera-shy at first, it becomes suspicious if they dodge requests for a video call repeatedly. Excuses like “my camera is broken” or frequent last-minute cancellations often mean they’re hiding something. A genuine person will usually be willing to have at least a quick video or phone chat after you’ve built some initial comfort.

Their social media doesn’t add up

In today’s world, most people have some form of social media presence. It doesn’t have to be public or detailed, but complete invisibility is unusual. If you search someone’s name and find nothing, or if their profiles look brand new, have very few friends, or seem oddly generic, that’s a red flag. Scammers often create “shell” accounts or fill them with random followers to look convincing.

They avoid meeting in person

A catfish thrives on distance. They might flirt endlessly and even talk about a future together, but they’ll come up with endless reasons not to meet face-to-face. Perhaps their car broke down, they had to suddenly travel for work, or there was a family emergency. While life does get in the way sometimes, if weeks or months pass without an attempt to meet, it’s time to question their intentions.

Everything seems too perfect

Be wary of the profile that seems flawless. If every photo looks like a professional modeling shot, or if their backstory sounds too glamorous, it may be fake. Another giveaway is when someone moves at lightning speed emotionally. If within days they are declaring love, talking about marriage, or calling you “soulmate,” it’s more likely manipulation than romance. Real connections take time to grow.

Inconsistencies in their story

Pay close attention to details. A catfish often struggles to keep their story straight. They might tell you they live in one city but slip up later with a different detail. They may claim to have a certain job but avoid answering specific questions. When pressed, they might become defensive or try to change the subject.

Dramatic excuses and stories

Many catfish rely on dramatic personal narratives. They may claim to be stationed overseas in the military, working on a remote oil rig, or recently widowed with a child. These stories are designed to gain sympathy while also providing a built-in excuse for why they can’t meet in person. Some even recycle their lies by disappearing and then reappearing under a new name with the same tragic backstory.

Money becomes part of the conversation

This is the biggest warning sign of all. Eventually, most scammers will bring up money. It might start with a sob story about a medical emergency, travel delays, or a frozen bank account. They may directly ask you to send cash, wire money, or buy gift cards. The moment money enters the conversation, it’s almost certainly a scam. No legitimate romantic partner you’ve just met online should ask for financial help.

Smart Ways to Protect Yourself

1. Use video early

One of the quickest ways to confirm someone is real is through video chat. Even a five-minute call can provide reassurance. If the person refuses again and again, it’s best to walk away.

2. Do your research

Spend a few minutes looking up their name, photos, and details they share. While not everyone has a large online footprint, most people leave some kind of trace. If you can’t verify anything about them, be cautious.

3. Try reverse image search

If you suspect their pictures might not be real, use a reverse image search tool. If their “selfies” are actually linked to another name or come from a stock photo site, you’ve uncovered the truth.

4. Set a timeline for meeting

If the relationship feels promising, aim to meet in person within a few weeks to a month. Choose a public place and let friends know where you’ll be. Real people who are serious will want to meet; scammers will continue making excuses.

5. Protect your money

Never send money to someone you haven’t met. Don’t share credit card or bank details, and don’t pay for travel or visas. Even if the story tugs at your heartstrings, remember that scammers are experts at emotional manipulation.

6. Safeguard your personal information

In the early stages, keep your last name, workplace, and address private. Use the app’s messaging tools until you feel confident. If you move communication to phone or email, consider using a secondary number or account.

7. Be cautious with overseas stories

Military deployment or overseas contracts are two of the most common scam setups. While real people in these situations exist, be extra cautious if someone you’ve never met claims this as their reason for not seeing you.

8. Trust your instincts

If something feels wrong, it probably is. Many victims later say they had a gut feeling but ignored it. Don’t second-guess yourself, if the red flags are piling up, it’s safer to cut contact.

9. Ask for advice

Sometimes when you’re emotionally involved, it’s hard to see clearly. Talk to a trusted friend, family member, or even an online support group. A fresh perspective can help you spot warning signs you might have missed.

Staying Safe While You Date

Dating online should be exciting, not dangerous. By knowing what to watch for and taking simple precautions, you can protect yourself while still enjoying the opportunity to connect with new people. 

Remember:

• Verify early
• Move cautiously
• Never send money
• Trust your instincts

The more proactive you are, the less likely you’ll fall victim to a catfish. Real relationships stand up to questions, to verification, and to meeting in person. Fake ones crumble under scrutiny. Stay safe, stay smart, and keep your focus on finding the genuine connections you deserve.







Published By: Sister Wives 

Matchmakers Inc