Bumble scams: how dating app scammers work and the red flags
Quick answer
A match on Bumble or any dating app who asks you for money is a scammer. The FTC says gift cards, wire transfers and crypto are the clearest sign. Stop contact, report the profile to the app, and report it at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
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How it works
Bumble is a real dating app, and scammers set up fake profiles on it like on any dating site. This page covers the scam, not the app.
The FTC describes the pattern. The match says they're in love quickly. They can't meet in person because they live far away or work overseas, as a doctor, a servicemember or an oil rig worker, but they'll chat every day. They ask to move off the app to a personal email, text or phone number. Then they ask for money, often by gift card, wire transfer or cryptocurrency.
A reverse image search of their photo can show the same pictures under other names. The FTC says recovery is unlikely once money is sent, because scammers move fast and empty accounts.
Red flags
- A match who says they're in love within days
- They can't meet in person or video call
- They ask to move off the app straight away
- A story about being a doctor, servicemember or oil rig worker overseas
- Any request for money, a gift card, a wire transfer or crypto
- Their photos show up under other names in a reverse image search
Example message
I feel like we have a real connection. I'm working overseas for a few more months and I'm stuck, my account is frozen. Could you send me a gift card so I can get home to meet you?
What to do
- 1
Stop contact and don't send money
If a match asks for money, cut off contact. Don't pay, even a small amount.
- 2
Report the profile to the app
Tell the dating app right away through its in-app report option.
- 3
If you already sent money, contact the payment company
Call the wire service, gift card company or card issuer, say it was fraud and ask if the payment can be stopped. Recovery is unlikely, so act quickly.
- 4
If they threaten to share intimate images
Don't pay. The FTC says to contact the FBI.
- 5
Report it
File a report at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
Report it
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Why you got it
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Frequently asked
Are there scammers on Bumble?
Yes, as on any dating app. The FTC's advice applies across dating apps: a match who asks for money is a scammer.
Is Bumble a scam?
No. Bumble is a real dating app. Scammers use fake profiles on dating apps, and the app is a place they find people.
How can I check if a profile is fake?
The FTC suggests a reverse image search. If the photo appears under several names, you're probably dealing with a scammer.
Can I get my money back?
Recovery is unlikely, but contact the company you used to send the money right away and report it at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
Sources
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