Had a provider from angelprovider.com say she wants $40 down video meet first than we can meet for $125 hr?    Anyone try this ?  Safe? Scam?

My general rule is never pay a deposit up front.  I think most guys feel the same way.  

Unless you know the provider already, I’d stay away. You won’t always get burned, but the probability still isn’t good.

I'm surprised the responses all focus on a $40 deposit. A lot more damage can be done with a video-blackmail, outing, etc-and Illnois's 2 party consent law isn't going to really protect you from the lasting damage this could cause. It's very easy to record a screen (without your knowledge) without ever initiating record within the app itself. I'd say no to anyone who wants uncontrolled access to my face and a private conversation.