ANY site , whether for dating specifically or not, can harbor scammers. Up to each of us to be wise. Though no reason to be paranoid either - just hold on to common sense.

As a male I can say dating sites are shit, I have never and I mean never, had a girl approach me and say 'OH YOU LIKE PHYSICS AND STAR TREK AND MOVIES? LETS TALK!'
Im not sure whether thats because im not particularly attractive, because im not particularily fit, because I am boring to many? (I think this one is a high likilihood) but the fact remains, dating sites are utter crap from my perspective.

I share your feelings of trepidation but I think we can be somewhat circumspect in our dealings. For me, the biggest “fraud,” in my life was a man I thought I knew!!!! Living and learning. Don’t give up.....I have so many friends who have met appropriate people on line.

Umm... it's good to have a healthy amount of paranoia, but I have to point out that Google fortunately does NOT know all. Did you check public records? Property tax records? Do a search on yourself to check what you suggest.

The internet makes it easier for assholes to scam people. I'm on a couple sites where all I do is bust fake accounts. They hate me

It’s rampant, even on non-dating sites like Facebook or Instagram(why my account is private!). A few weeks ago, it happened on Words With Friends—I blocked immediately, as that one was very aggressive.
Good advice, to fact check.