As online relationships increasingly begin on social media and dating platforms, investigators emphasize the importance of background checks and digital identity verification.

TORONTO, ON — March 18, 2026

Online romance scams and identity deception continue to pose growing risks for individuals forming relationships through social media and dating applications. Investigators note that individuals increasingly seek verification of online identities and background information when relationships begin through social media or dating platforms.

Law enforcement agencies and fraud investigators note that many romance scams begin through dating platforms or social media networks, where individuals may present fabricated identities, misleading personal histories, or false professional backgrounds. As reported by CBC News, Jeff Horncastle, outreach officer of the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre, noted that relationship scams reached a staggering

$63 million in losses last year.

As part of Fraud Prevention Month 2026, Canadian authorities are drawing attention to the growing impact of fraud across the country. Data from the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC) cited in a Government of Canada announcement shows that Canadians lost more than $704 million to fraud in 2025, underscoring the expanding risks associated with digital communication, social media interactions, and online relationships.

Private investigators increasingly rely on digital investigative techniques to uncover patterns of deception associated with online relationships and identity fraud. The Canadian Financial Capability Survey revealed that 46% of respondents reported being victims of investment fraud in 2024, many involving impersonation or identity deception that originated through online communication platforms. By analyzing social media activity, public records, online profiles, and digital communication trails, investigators can identify inconsistencies that may indicate identity fraud or misrepresentation.

Beyond identity verification, digital investigations can reveal hidden connections between profiles, location discrepancies, and behavioral patterns that help confirm whether a person’s claims align with verifiable information. As more personal relationships begin online, investigators say that examining an individual’s digital footprint has become increasingly important. Data compiled by World Population Review indicates that Canada ranked fourth globally in Tinder usage in 2023. This reflects the widespread adoption of online dating platforms and highlights how digital environments have become common spaces for both genuine connections and fraudulent schemes.

“When people call us, they’re often going through one of the hardest moments in their lives. We never take that lightly.” — Mitch Dubros, Founder, Investigation Hotline

About Investigation Hotline

Investigation Hotline is a Toronto-based private investigation agency, founded by a seasoned entrepreneur and business executive, Mitchell (“Mitch”) Dubros. serving individuals, families, legal professionals, and businesses throughout Ontario. Established in 1988, the firm provides a wide range of investigative services, including cheating spouse investigations, background checks, surveillance, asset identification, social media investigations, workplace investigations, fraud investigations, child custody investigations, and locating missing persons.

Investigation Hotline combines traditional investigative techniques with modern digital analysis to uncover critical information while maintaining strict confidentiality and professional standards.