OK this is all well and good. But what I am wondering is are escort sites legit?
How do I know if they are fake - either cops posing as one, or scammers, or catfishers?
Are there are any signs to look for that show this is an obviously fake ad?
To the OP:
I think you're being a bit vague for people here.
There are definitely different types of scammers. Like you said, police, catfishers, money scammers or just terrible escorts who are sex workers, but don't intend to sleep with you.
First, there are definitely some strong signs of a "sting."
Most stings are big league stuff. Like escorts trying to scam people out of personal info, bank information, or even blackmail.
So I don't think most sex ads (even if they're fake) are actual police standing by ready to handcuff you. Unless you're a U.S. politician, then yeah maybe.
So right away you can see some warning signs: Don't prepay the whole cost, because obviously there's nothing you can do if she screws you out of that money or ghosts.
Never give any bank info or personal info, since personal details can be used in blackmailing schemes.
I also take issue with BigFootGuy's claim that you should pay the deposit.
I would not do this. I do see some escorts ask for deposits, but it's usually because they are well connected, established, and generally trusted by the community.
However, most escorts will not do this because this is actually a common scam. Making money from the deposits and then ghosting you.
Exchange cash in person. It's just the safest way to do it.
If you're that paranoid about the escort being a cop, then just don't talk about what you're "buying" and pretend as if you're just having sex with her for free. (But leave the money where she can see it before the act)
Then, even if they are a cop, they don't have your confession. They're looking for clear confession that you bought sex with money, which is the illegal act. Avoid that and just say you are paying the escort for her time and companionship, sex is not part of the deal.