How to Spot Escort Scams: A UK Client's Guide
A small minority of listings are scams. Knowing the warning signs keeps your money and details safe. Here's what to watch for.
"One rule defeats almost every escort scam: never send money before you meet, in any form."AdultWork.me.uk Editorial, 2026
The Deposit Scam
The most common fraud: a 'companion' asks for a deposit, booking fee or 'taxi money' via bank transfer or gift card before meeting. Genuine companions take cash on arrival — any advance-payment request is a scam.
Fake or Stolen Photos
Scam profiles often use stolen images. Reverse-image-search the photos (Google Images or TinEye); if the same picture appears under different names on multiple sites, it's fake. Ask for a recent photo with today's date written on paper.
Other Red Flags
Rates far below the local average, pressure to act fast, refusal to confirm details, and communication that pushes you off-platform to untraceable apps are all warning signs. Trust your instincts and walk away.
How to Spot Escort Scams: Common Questions
Answered by our editorial team — updated May 2026.
- Never send money before meeting — deposits and fees are the #1 scam.
- Reverse-image-search photos to catch stolen pictures.
- Be wary of rates far below the local average.
- High-pressure urgency and off-platform apps are red flags.
- Report scam profiles so the directory can remove them.
