Don’t fall for it – how to defend yourself from romance scams

According to the FBI’s Internet Crime Report, romance scams, also known as relationship or confidence scams, are one of the top five online scams, reporting over $650 million in losses in 2023.

How romance scams work

A scammer will contact you through a dating app, social media site, email, or text. They may use fake profiles, photos, and even AI-generated images to lure you into a relationship. They show what appears to be genuine interest in a friendship or romantic relationship to build your trust. Once they establish that trust, they ask you for money, information, or to make an investment. Some of the most common romance scams are:

• Imposter scams – Also known as “catfishing.” Scammers may impersonate celebrities, military personnel stationed overseas, students studying abroad, working professionals on travel assignment, or a foreign national interested in visiting the U.S. This person may seem too good to be true or profess love very quickly. They might use emotional stories to gain your sympathy, then ask for money for emergency expenses, medical bills, or other “essentials.”
•  The long con – Compared to other romance scams, these scammers slowly build up and foster trust. Often, they are working more than one scam at the same time, so they might be vague or inconsistent about their personal details or background. They might even suggest meeting in person but then make excuses, so this never happens. The scammer will at some point steer the conversation toward investment-related topics where they will try to get you to invest or send them money for a “great opportunity.” 
•  Platonic scams – Not all relationship scams are romantic. Some scammers will try to become your best friend and a trusted confidant. Scammers target individuals seeking companionship, support, or shared interests. They look for you on social media platforms, online forums, or even gaming sites. 

How to protect your heart and wallet 

• Do not respond to scammers. Scammers may use romance as a cover to obtain sensitive personal information, such as bank account details, passwords, or financial data. They can use this information to steal your identity or access your accounts. Ignore anyone contacting you that you don’t know. Do not share your personal information. Never click on any suspicious links or apps sent to you.  
• Do your research. Look for the red flags. Once scammers gain your trust, they may introduce you to fake investment opportunities, promising high returns with little risk. They may use pressure tactics, fake testimonials, or evidence to convince you to invest. If they ask for payment by gift cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfer, it’s a scam. Verify all information, check credentials, and go directly to the official source, company, or website.
• Take your time. Scammers might pressure you to act quickly or make decisions without thinking. They might try to blackmail you after establishing a relationship, threatening to expose the relationship or share compromising photos unless you pay them. Ignore anyone who threatens you, offers a limited time offer, or tells you not to share information with others. Do not make any big financial decision for at least 24 hours.
• Report the incident. If you think you are the target of a romance scam submit a complaint or call us at (866) 275-2677.