Someone I met online who lives abroad says they want to marry me. How do I know they mean it?
Real plans move slowly and both people spend money and time. Be careful if marriage comes up within weeks and is followed by a request for money for visas, tickets, lawyers or documents.
Long-distance relationships between Ghana and other countries are common, and many are real. Scammers use the same dream: they promise marriage and a new life, then ask you to pay for every step.
A person who really plans to marry you will meet you in person, video call often and never make the relationship depend on your money.
What to check
- Have you met in person or at least video called many times?
- Does every new step come with a fee you must pay?
- Do their photos, name and job hold up when you search for them?
- Do they introduce you to friends or family on video?
- Ask someone you trust for an honest opinion.
Frequently asked questions
- They say they will pay me back when we meet. Should I send money?
- No. 'I will pay you back' is part of the script. Do not send money to someone you have not met.
Want to know if there are warning signs about the person you're chatting to? Veritaza checks the photos, the messages, the number, the email address, the name and the ID document, for GH₵25.
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