In a world where the next swipe or click holds a blend of opportunities and risks, online encounters aren’t just for singles. It’s natural to think that these lures are exclusively for those on dating sites, but have you ever considered that you could be a mark even if you’re happily married or uninterested in dating? That’s why this month’s post is all about romance scams and their red flags. Let’s dive in.
What Are Romance Scams, Really?
Romance scams are a form of online fraud where cybercriminals develop fake relationships with individuals, often for financial gain. They frequently build trust over a period of months or even years before asking for money. The emotional manipulation can be intense and devastating, creating a false sense of urgency that preys on kindness and goodwill.
Surprising Statistics
Did you know that the Federal Trade Commission reports victims lost a staggering $1.3 billion in both 2021 and 2022 due to romance scams? What’s more surprising is that not all victims were single and looking for love. Check out the graphic for romance scammers favorite lies. You might even recognize some from your own social media contacts.
Who Are the Victims?
The United Secret Service states that, “Victims can be both men and women. Many times, the criminal targets older people and those who may be struggling in a relationship.” They conclude that victims can be almost anyone.
Avoid Romance Scams with Red Flags
- The person wants you to send money in the form of cryptocurrency, a gift card, or wire transfer.
- They ask you to send money to receive a package.
- If you do meet a new friend, romantic or otherwise, talk to your friends and family about them. If they’re concerned, take a second look at your new friend.
Steps You Can Take to Stay Safe
- Keep the amount of sensitive personal information you share on the web to a minimum.
- Be aware that scammers piece together information from multiple databases to create a profile on you. If you’re notified that you are part of a security breach, take it seriously.
- Use the scammers’ tactics against them by doing a reverse image search of their profile picture. You can do this by going to images.google.com and uploading a copy of the photo. Google will tell you everywhere that photo is used.
- If you believe you’re being scammed, report it to the platform you’re using, your local police, or the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center.
The Bottom Line on Romance Scams
Romance scams are a harsh reality. Spotting the red flags and staying vigilant are critical steps to staying safe online—even if you’re happily away from the dating scene. Stay informed, stay cautious, and know that fraudsters don’t care about your relationship status. Your personal safety, emotional health, and financial well-being should never hinge on a stranger’s story. Protect yourself with skepticism, validation tactics, and the power of reporting. Be in control and be safe!
Did you like this scam tip? Check out last month’s post, Gym Membership scams. Or, browse all of my scam tips here.
