Love may be blind, but it shouldn’t leave you broke. According to Pew Research Center, three in 10 U.S. adults say they have used an online dating site or app. Unfortunately, the rise of online dating has also led to a rise in scammers who are after your wallet more than your heart.
Romance scams are a type of online fraud where swindlers create fake profiles on dating websites or social media platforms to deceive people emotionally and financially. These con artists build trust and form a romantic connection with their victims before exploiting that trust for financial gain.
Fraudsters typically target vulnerable individuals who may be lonely, isolated or seeking love and companionship. This includes older adults, recently divorced or widowed individuals or those who have experienced previous trauma.
Always remember: never send money to someone you haven’t met in person, and be cautious of online requests for financial assistance.
Recognize the warning signs
Being aware of familiar warning signs will help you protect yourself from romance scams, which can have devastating emotional and financial consequences. Here are some red flags to watch out for when speaking to a new “friend” online:
Too much, too soon. If someone you’ve just met professes their undying love for you almost immediately, it’s a major warning sign. Tricksters often use flattery and exaggerated affection to build trust quickly.
Inconsistencies in their story. Pay attention to any irregularities in their information. Scammers often forget details of their fabricated stories or provide conflicting information.
Requests for money. A common tactic is asking for money. Scammers may claim to have a financial emergency or a pressing need for funds, often with elaborate stories to convince you to send money.
It’s also essential to be aware of the manipulative techniques employed by romance scammers. These techniques include:
Love bombing. Grifters shower their targets with excessive affection and attention, making them feel special and desired. This tactic creates a sense of dependency and clouds judgment.
Guilt-tripping. Scammers may use guilt to manipulate you into doing what they want. They might make you feel responsible for their financial difficulties or claim their life will be ruined if you don’t help them.
Isolation. Fraudsters may try to cut you off from friends and family, convincing you they are the only person who truly cares about you. By cutting off your support system, they gain more control over you.
By being aware of these warning signs, you can protect yourself from falling victim to a romance scam. Trust your instincts and never send money or personal information to someone you’ve only met online.
Reporting and Recovering from Scams
Romance scams can be devastating, but taking immediate action is crucial to protect yourself and help authorities catch the tricksters. If you believe you have fallen victim to a romance scam, follow these steps to report it to the appropriate authorities:
1. If you sent money in any form to a swindler, contact your credit union or bank immediately and provide them with details of the suspected scam.
2. File a report with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at https://reportfraud.ftc.gov. The FTC collects information from victims to help identify patterns and trends in scams.
3. Report the scam to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at https://www.ic3.gov. The IC3 is a partnership between the FBI and the National White Collar Crime Center, and they investigate cybercrimes.
Remember, reporting the scam and seeking support are essential steps towards recovering from a romance scam. By taking action, you not only protect yourself but also help prevent others from falling victim to these internet dating scams.
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