It’s clear that Grindr was built to be a safe space for the LGBTQ+ community, but despite the pride colors, the app isn’t all rainbows.

Just a few flirty midnight texts can land you a hookup by sunrise, or so it seems. Instead of a meet-up, you might get hit with: “I don’t go out unless I’m paid”, or “Buy some Bitcoin first, then we’ll talk”.

So, how do you know if your match is the real deal or a scammer in disguise? Here are the biggest red flags to look out for on Grindr:

🚩. No Face Photos, Only Body Parts

It’s common to get greeted by a six-pack before a name on Grindr. After all, the app’s built for quick flings, not full-on life stories and romantic dates. 

And that’s totally fine…or at least for some.

But when all you get are cropped torsos, blurry shadows, or suspiciously professional pics? That’s scammer behavior. If they do send a face, it’s either too perfect to be real or just a little too average to feel right.

And like your mom says when teaching you to cook: “You just know.”

🚩🚩. They’re Immediately In Heat

They’ll love-bomb you, send nudes within minutes, and wait for you to return the favor. Since they showed something first, you “owe” them now – and if you hesitate, don’t worry, they’ll remind you what they want.

From there, it usually goes one of three ways:

1. You say no. They drop the act and show their true colors (not the cute ones).
2. You say no again. They pretend it’s OK, but keep pushing until you give in, or they guilt-trip and block you when you don’t.
3. You say yes. Then the real scam begins: “I’ll ruin your life. I’ll send your nudes to everyone unless you send $1,000.”

🚩🚩🚩. Insists On Moving Off The App

To avoid getting reported or banned, scammers try to leave Grindr as soon as possible. They’ll push for private apps like Telegram or Snapchat, where it’s harder to trace them and easier to disappear.

If they’re fishing for more personal info, they might ask for your Instagram or Facebook (where your friends list is visible), or even your WhatsApp or phone number (your phone number is sensitive info).

🚩🚩🚩🚩. They Want To Be Your Sugar Daddy

Some scammers go full fantasy mode: playing the rich, generous sugar daddy. Maybe it’s a kink, maybe it’s a scam (most likely the second part). Either way, they don’t have a dime to give you.

Perhaps you still believe them. After all, they sent you their banking statements – they’re all made up. It’s a setup. They want your banking info, your trust, and eventually, your “investment”, usually in crypto.

🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩. Different Profile, Same Photos

Poor scammers: they don’t even have original photos. They recycle the same stolen selfies, either from other scammers or real users.

The result? You’ll start seeing the same abs or face pop up on different profiles. If they were acting shady before, this is all the proof you need. No more second-guessing…it’s time to back away, and fast.

🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩. “I’ll Service You, But Send Money First”

Let’s be real: kinks and fetishes are nothing new on Grindr. Maybe you’re into being walked like a dog, and suddenly Robert pops up, ready to treat you like the good little pup you are.

And sure, some people profit from your turn-ons. You might even be willing to pay after the service. But somehow, they flip the script: “Send the money first.”

You send it, and just like that…no puppy play, no scratches: just ghosted.

🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩. They’re Never Able To Meet

Grindr is all about fast hookups, so if someone’s constantly dodging plans, that’s a major red flag. They might say they’re busy, or use many excuses that get more ridiculous each time.

If they keep stalling or canceling at the last minute, stop wasting your time. They’re either a scammer or just playing games – and neither is worth your energy.

How To Stay Safe From Grindr Scams?

If the red flags start piling up, don’t ignore your gut. That uneasy feeling? It’s reason enough to step away. But whether you’re already in a sketchy situation or just want to stay prepared, here’s how to protect yourself:

– Don’t Share Nudes

Unless you’re 100% fine with your boss, your coworkers, and your grandma seeing them, it’s better to keep your clothes on, digitally speaking. Scammers love to threaten exposure, and while some bluff, others don’t.

Don’t hand them that power for a quick compliment. But if you do send nudes, crop out your face, avoid tattoos, scars, or anything identifiable, and claim the pics are AI-generated if blackmailed.

– Avoid Sending Too Many Selfies

Have you seen what AI can do lately? It’s terrifying. And no, this isn’t an exaggeration; your face can be stitched into fake, explicit photos or videos in seconds.

Some look fake, and some scarily real. So real, you won’t even be able to tell the difference. That’s how sextortion starts. One selfie, and suddenly you’re being blackmailed. So send less. Or better, don’t send at all if they feel off.

– Don’t Send Money, Especially w/o Meeting Them.

It should be common knowledge not to send money to people you haven’t met. People lie. People scam. People disappear. Don’t do it even if they say they’re struggling or promise to do something for you. 

Unless you’ve already received a service, especially something kink-related – in that case, fair’s fair, but keep your wallet closed until then.

– Don’t Share Your Social Media 

By switching to apps like Instagram, Facebook, or WhatsApp, scammers stay mysterious while collecting your info. On Instagram and Facebook, they can:

• See your posts;
• Browse your tagged photos;
• Check your friend list (hello, aunties);
• Read your venting stories and mood swings.

From there, they build a profile, and maybe even a target list. You’ll soon realize they weren’t trying to “get closer”. They were just trying to find your weak spots.

– Ask About Their Age

Fingers crossed you’re not intentionally looking for minors. Just to be safe, always ask for their age more than once. Take screenshots. Keep receipts.

Some scammers pretend to be underage after exchanging nudes. Then, you’ll get a message from a “parent,” a “lawyer,” or a “cop” saying you traumatized their poor child. 

They’ll threaten lawsuits, arrest, or public shame—unless, of course, you pay up to make it all go away. Remember: the more you talk, the more power they get, so walk away without a trace.

If this happens: Block them immediately – no response, no apology, no negotiation. If you have a screenshot showing they said they were of legal age, keep it handy. You can use it if things escalate.