Love is in the Air…or is it a Scam? Spotting and Avoiding Romance Scams

Romance scams are devastatingly effective, preying on our desire for connection and love. These scams involve criminals posing as potential romantic partners online, building trust and emotional intimacy before eventually asking for money or personal information.

How to Identify a Romance Scam

Romance scammers use sophisticated techniques to manipulate their victims. They often create fake profiles on dating sites, social media, or through email. They may use stolen photos and fabricated details about their lives to appear charming and believable.

Common Warning Signs

Be wary if your online love interest:

• Moves the conversation quickly offline, avoiding video calls or in-person meetings.
• Asks for money, gifts, or personal financial information early in the relationship.
• Has a vague or inconsistent story about their life and work.
• Claims to be in a crisis or emergency situation that requires urgent financial assistance.
• Uses overly romantic or passionate language without knowing you well.
• Speaks in broken English or has difficulty communicating.
• Their profile pictures seem too good to be true or are inconsistent.

What to Do If You Encounter a Romance Scam

If you suspect you’re being targeted by a romance scammer:

• Stop all communication immediately.
• Do not send any money or personal information.
• Report the scammer to the dating site or social media platform where you met them.
• Report the scam to the appropriate authorities, such as the FTC or your local police department.
• Document all communication, including emails, messages, and financial transactions.

Prevention Tips

Protect yourself from romance scams by:

• Being cautious about online relationships and taking time to get to know someone before sharing personal information.
• Video chatting early in the relationship to verify their identity and appearance.
• Never sending money or gifts to someone you’ve only met online.
• Being wary of anyone who asks for financial assistance or claims to be in a crisis.
• Using strong passwords and keeping your personal information private online.
• Trusting your instincts – if something feels off, it probably is.

Conclusion

Romance scams are a serious issue, but by being aware of the warning signs and taking preventative measures, you can protect yourself from becoming a victim. Remember, genuine relationships build slowly and don’t involve asking for money.