How escort scams usually work.

The pattern is similar everywhere. A scammer builds a fake profile with stolen photos, replies quickly and warmly, then asks for an upfront payment to “secure” the booking — often in gift cards or game credits. Once paid, they disappear. Some go further and threaten to expose the conversation unless you pay more (ScamShield, sexual service scams (opens in a new tab)).

Warning signs.

• You’re contacted first, out of the blue, on social media, a messaging app or a dating app.
• You’re asked to pay upfront with gift cards, crypto, game credits or a bank transfer to a stranger. Australian agencies warn that no legitimate business demands gift cards as payment (WA ScamNet (opens in a new tab)).
• You’re asked to install an unfamiliar app or click a link for a “video check”.
• The price is far below what other providers in the area list, or the photos look like a model shoot from somewhere else.
• Pressure: “book now or lose the spot”, or anger when you ask questions.

Checks worth making before you book.

• Read the whole profile. Real providers usually list clear options, durations, prices, an area and their conditions.
• Look for consistency between photos, area, languages and touring dates.
• A reverse image search can show whether the photos appear elsewhere under other names.
• Book through a platform that verifies providers and shows you what you pay, and when.
• Never pay a provider’s price before you meet unless you are certain who you are dealing with.

How BelleTime is designed to help.

• Every provider verified. One individual per profile, with identity, age and person-match checks and an approved review before publication. Agencies and bulk listings are not accepted.
• No upfront payment to the provider. The provider’s full price is paid directly to them at the appointment.
• One clear fee. BelleTime’s A$19 booking fee, including GST, is charged only once a booking is confirmed. A declined or expired request costs you nothing.
• Private by design. You verify one email with BelleTime, and providers never receive it.

Verification has limits: it is not a background check or a guarantee of anyone’s conduct. Read how to book an independent provider and our booking etiquette guide.

If you’ve been scammed or threatened.

• Stop contact, and don’t pay anything more.
• Keep evidence: screenshots, usernames, phone numbers, payment receipts, dates and times.
• Contact your bank straight away if you paid by card or transfer.
• Report it to Scamwatch (opens in a new tab). If someone threatens to share intimate images, eSafety’s sextortion guidance (opens in a new tab) explains what to do and how to get images removed.
• If you are in danger, call 000.

Common questions.