Spotting a real soldier can be tricky—especially online. Scammers often pretend to be military personnel to gain trust. But real service members follow strict rules and rarely act suspiciously.
Red Flags vs. Real Behavior
A real soldier will never ask you for money, gift cards, or financial help. They receive pay, housing, and medical care from the military. If someone claims they need funds for leave, communication, or emergencies, it’s a scam. Also, real soldiers don’t use dating apps to solicit money or send romantic messages to strangers quickly.
Check their email address. Official military emails end in “.mil”—not Gmail, Yahoo, or other public domains. They also won’t share classified info, dramatic war stories, or photos in uniform with random people online. Privacy and operational security are taken seriously.
Ask specific questions. A real soldier can usually name their MOS (Military Occupational Specialty), unit (within OPSEC limits), or base. But they won’t overshare details about missions or equipment. If answers sound vague, scripted, or too dramatic, be cautious.
Verify through official channels. You can contact the Defense Manpower Data Center (DMDC) or use the Military OneSource scam reporting line. Never rely on photos—many are stolen from real service members’ social media.
If you met someone online claiming to be a soldier, slow down. Build trust over time. Real military members are proud of their service—but they’re also disciplined, respectful, and bound by rules. They won’t rush you, pressure you, or ask for favors involving money.
When in doubt, trust your gut. If something feels off, it probably is. Protect your personal info and report suspicious profiles to the platform and authorities. Authentic soldiers serve with honor—and don’t operate like romance scammers.