Romance scams are a growing threat on dating apps, with Americans losing over $1.14 billion in 2023 alone. As Valentine’s Day approaches, it’s essential to be aware of the common schemes scammers use and how to protect yourself.
Common Romance Scams:
The Long-Distance Lover: Scammers create fake profiles, claiming to work overseas, and build relationships before needing money for emergencies or business investments.
The Fake Profile: Stolen photos from real people are used to lure victims on platforms like Facebook, where profiles seem too good to be true.
The “I Need a Gift Card” Trick: Scammers request gift cards instead of cash, claiming it’s for medical bills, phone bills, or proof of love.
The Cryptocurrency Con: Scammers convince victims to invest in cryptocurrency, promising thousands of dollars but never delivering.
Sextortion Scam: Victims are pressured into sending explicit photos or videos, which are then used to blackmail them.
How to Protect Yourself:
Be skeptical of online strangers who come on too strong or declare their love quickly. Verify their identity by doing research and checking social media profiles for consistency. Never send money or personal information to someone you haven’t met in person. Watch out for excuses to avoid meeting in person, as this is often a scammer’s tactic. Report suspected scams to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the dating site or platform where you met the scammer.
Stay safe, stay smart, and enjoy Valentine’s Day without the heartbreak by being aware of these warning signs and taking steps to protect yourself.
Source: https://www.foxbusiness.com/technology/how-avoid-a-romance-scam-this-valentines-day