
Phrases Commonly Used by Romance Scammers on Trans Dating Sites
Navigating the world of online dating can be tricky, especially on trans dating sites where the sense of community and understanding is strong. However, scammers often exploit this trust and connection to trick people into giving them money. Recognizing the red flags is crucial to protect yourself. Here are common phrases used by romance scammers on trans dating sites, all aimed at getting your money.
“I need your help with a small financial problem related to my transition, and I’ll pay you back as soon as possible.”
When someone reaches out to you with a heartfelt plea for financial help related to their transition, it can tug at your heartstrings. They might mention needing money for hormone treatments, surgery costs, or other transition-related expenses. The scammer usually promises to repay the loan as soon as they can. They often play on your empathy, knowing you understand the challenges of transitioning.

However, it’s important to be cautious. Scammers use these stories to create a sense of urgency and dependency. Before you offer any financial help, consider verifying their story through trusted sources or discussing it with friends who may offer perspective. If you feel pressured or uneasy, it’s a red flag. Protect your finances and well-being by being prudent and never sending money to someone you’ve only met online.
“My bank account is temporarily frozen due to international transactions; can you lend me some money until it’s sorted out?”
A scammer might claim their bank account is frozen because of international transactions, a common excuse to explain why they can’t access their own funds. They may say they’re traveling, working abroad, or dealing with bureaucratic issues, and just need a temporary loan until everything is resolved. This story can seem plausible, especially if the person appears genuine and has been building a relationship with you.
Despite the convincing narrative, this is a common tactic used to exploit your kindness. Be skeptical of requests for money, even if the story seems legitimate. It’s best to suggest they contact their bank or seek help from local authorities. Avoid sending money or sharing financial information. Trust your instincts and prioritize your safety over their requests.
“I’m planning a surprise visit to you, but I need some money to cover the travel expenses and visa fees.”
Hearing that someone you care about is planning a surprise visit can be thrilling. Scammers exploit this excitement by claiming they need money for travel expenses and visa fees. They may describe detailed plans to visit, making the scenario feel very real and immediate. The anticipation of meeting them in person can cloud your judgment.
However, be wary of sending money for travel-related expenses. Scammers know how to weave believable stories to gain your trust. If someone you’ve only met online asks for money to visit, it’s a major red flag. Realistically, anyone serious about visiting you would handle their own travel arrangements without asking for money upfront. Protect yourself by declining such requests and suggesting they make their own travel plans independently.
“I want to send you a special gift to celebrate our connection, but I need your address and phone number for the shipping fees.”
Receiving a special gift from someone can be a wonderful gesture, and scammers know this. They might say they want to send you a gift to celebrate your relationship but need your address and phone number to cover the shipping fees. This request can seem harmless, as sharing contact information might not appear risky.

Nevertheless, this is often a ploy to get personal information and potentially money. Scammers can use your address and phone number for fraudulent activities or further scams. Always be cautious about sharing personal information with someone you haven’t met in person. If you feel pressured, it’s best to decline and protect your privacy. Genuine connections will respect your boundaries and not insist on such details.
“I’ve had an emergency with my hormone treatment, and I need some financial assistance to get through it.”
When someone shares an emergency related to their hormone treatment, it can feel urgent and concerning. They might explain that without immediate financial help, their treatment will be interrupted, causing significant distress. This scenario is designed to elicit a quick, empathetic response, especially from those who understand the importance of consistent medical care.
It’s crucial to remain cautious in such situations. Scammers often fabricate medical emergencies to exploit your generosity. Before offering financial help, suggest they reach out to local resources or support organizations that assist with medical needs. Avoid sending money directly, as this can be a trap. By staying vigilant, you can protect yourself from fraud while still showing care and support in safer ways.
“My wallet was stolen while I was traveling for a medical consultation; can you send me some money to help me get back home?”
When someone claims their wallet was stolen during a trip for a medical consultation, it can sound urgent and dire. They might detail the incident, emphasizing their vulnerability and immediate need for help to return home. The story often includes specifics to make it more believable, appealing to your sense of compassion and urgency.
Despite the compelling narrative, it’s important to remain cautious. Scammers frequently use such stories to exploit your kindness. If you receive such a request, consider suggesting they contact local authorities or their embassy for assistance. Refrain from sending money directly, as this could be part of a scam. Protect yourself by staying skeptical and seeking verification through other means before taking any action.
“I need to pay for a gender-affirming surgery so we can finally be together in person; can you help me out?”
The promise of being together in person can be very enticing, especially when paired with a heartfelt plea for help with gender-affirming surgery. The scammer may describe how this surgery is crucial for their well-being and for your future together, making the request seem both urgent and deeply personal.

However, funding surgery is a significant financial commitment and should raise red flags if requested by someone you’ve only met online. Instead of sending money, suggest they explore legitimate fundraising platforms or seek assistance from medical support organizations. Being cautious about such requests is vital to protect your finances and emotional well-being. Genuine connections will understand your need for caution and won’t pressure you into financial commitments.
“The internet here is expensive, and I need it to stay in touch with you; can you send me money to cover the costs?”
The desire to stay connected can make a request for internet money seem reasonable, especially if someone claims they can’t afford it themselves. They may emphasize how much your conversations mean to them and how losing this connection would be devastating.
Even though this request might seem small, it’s a common tactic used by scammers to gauge your willingness to send money. Be wary of anyone asking for financial help to maintain online communication. Instead of sending money, suggest alternative ways to stay in touch that don’t involve additional costs. Protecting yourself from potential scams is essential, even when the request appears to come from a place of genuine need.
“I need to pay for a medical procedure urgently related to my transition; can you lend me some money?”
An urgent medical request related to a transition can feel very pressing and elicit a strong emotional response. The scammer might detail their health issues, stressing the immediate need for financial assistance to continue their treatment. This tactic leverages both your empathy and sense of urgency.
Before responding to such a request, take a step back and verify the information. Suggest they contact local support groups or medical organizations that offer financial assistance for such needs. Avoid sending money directly, as this could be a scam. Protecting your finances while showing care can be balanced by directing them to appropriate, legitimate resources.
“I lost my job unexpectedly and need some financial support until I find a new one that understands my identity.”
Hearing that someone lost their job unexpectedly can naturally elicit sympathy, especially if they link it to their identity. The person might express the difficulty of finding a new job that is accepting, appealing to your sense of justice and support for their situation.

While it’s understandable to feel moved by such a story, be cautious about sending money. Instead, suggest practical support, like helping them find job resources or connecting them with local LGBTQ+ organizations that assist with employment. This approach helps them in a constructive way while protecting yourself from potential scams. Genuine individuals will appreciate your support without insisting on financial assistance.
If you’re looking for a safe and welcoming space to meet genuine people, join My Transgender Date. Here, we prioritize the safety and well-being of our members, ensuring a supportive environment where you can build real connections.