I would say that vetting any individual met online is common and is, in fact, encouraged by security companies and sites where information between individuals can potentially be exchanged/shared. Asking to confirm identities before spending (or wasting) too much time is recommended. If you feel you Read more… are being misled, I would say a deeper dive would be in order. A few reverse image searches usually does the trick and no stalking is necessary. The amount of scammers I have sussed out that way is unbelievable. They certainly make it harder to connect with real people. Nothing beats a lengthy crisp, clear video chat with plenty of back and forth q & a. Not even AI is good enough to fake that (yet). For me, a dead giveaway is someone asking for *** (for any reason) and personal information. Also, a person that can't or won't do a video chat or at least a phone call raises red flags because they're either cheating, in prison or not who they claim to be. I know we're all leary of giving out phone numbers, but there are a few apps out there that keep that information private while allowing voice and video. It's tough to know when ensuring your safety encroaches on someone else's safety. Just be careful, be safe and do your due diligence.

I would politely ask for a video session because, short of your desired in-person sessions, that would be the least she could do to help you connect with her on some level. It will also assuage any ***s that you are dealing with a scammer or catfish. While a video chat is in no way a replacement Read more… for a physical connection, it may help you until you two are able to meet. If she or neither of you have any intentions of meeting, then you may need to seek another arrangement with someone in your vicinity. I know it's not easy, so I do not suggest that lightly.