Cupid meets cybersecurity — How to date safely in the age of AI

This Valentine’s Day, millions of singles are swiping, scrolling and messaging on dating apps, hoping to connect with that special someone. But, while love may be in the air, so are potential risks. According to the latest Norton Cyber Safety Insights Report, nearly half (40%) of people currently on a dating app have been targeted by scams, with 41% of those targeted falling victim to one. And with the rise of AI, tackling these risks is only getting tricker.

Luckily, Norton experts are here to help you navigate the world of online dating. Whether you’re chatting with a match or curious about how AI plays into it all, we’ve got the tips to keep your heart – and your personal info – safe.

From AI with love

AI is transforming the way we connect, and online dating is no exception. From new AI features on dating apps to AI tools that help people elevate their online dating experience, technology is adding a twist. However, AI is also making it even easier for bad actors to manipulate and trick people. From hyper-realistic profiles and fake images to messages that feel genuine, cybercriminals are using AI to create an illusion of authenticity that can be difficult to spot, even for the most seasoned online dater. The data found:

• 60% of people who currently use dating apps believe that they’ve had a conversation that was written by AI with someone on a dating app.
• 46% of people currently on dating apps have reported a suspected scammer or catfish to an online dating platform.
• Nearly one-third (29%) of people currently on dating apps admitted they have digitally altered photos on their dating profile.

Are dating apps safe?

Using a dating app can feel daunting on its own, even before factoring in the added challenges of a rapidly changing AI landscape. According to the survey, when it comes to safety, not all dating apps are equal. Alarmingly, the majority of people believe non-dating platforms feel safer. In fact, 67% of current online daters believe that Instagram is the safest app to use. On the other hand, Feeld was rated the least safe, with only 24% believing the platform is safe.

Tips for a safer online dating experience

Online dating is difficult enough without scammers attempting to deceive you with the power of AI, so it’s important to educate yourself to stay safe while looking for love. Here are a few tips to help ensure AI is playing Cupid, and not catfish.

1. Vet your potential match. Use video calls or phone calls to help verify your match’s identity before meeting. If they protest, it is best to err on the side of caution. If they agree, pay close attention to any strange effects, as this could indicate a deepfake.
2. Be aware of AI conversations. If interactions feel too polished or lack personal depth, consider the possibility that AI might be involved. Additionally, if the person isn’t answering your questions directly or seems to be using “canned” responses, chances are it’s AI.
3. Look to social media. Check your match’s social media and the photos posted there (if any). Reverse image search the photos. This can help you determine if they stole their photos from someone else.
4. Leverage AI for good. Use digital safety tools like Norton Genie, a free scam detection app powered by AI, to review suspicious texts, messages, emails or web links and confirm if they are malicious.

Your safety matters as much as your heart. AI is changing the landscape of online dating by offering new features and tools to enhance the experience, but it also opens the door for sophisticated scams. This Valentine’s Day and beyond, prioritize your cybersecurity and keep an eye out for romance scammers hoping to make a pretty penny.

To learn more about the findings, check out our new 2025 Norton Cyber Safety Insights Report.

About the 2025 Norton Cyber Safety Insights Report: Online Dating

The study was conducted online within the United States by Dynata on behalf of Gen from December 5th to December 16th, 2024, among 1,001 adults ages 18 and older. Data are weighted where necessary by age, gender and region, to be nationally representative.