What Do Romance Scams Look Like?

In a romance ruse, a scammer creates a bogus online profile and attempts to connect with singles on dating apps and websites and through social media platforms. After a connection is formed, the scammer will work to build up the relationship with the victim. Once the scammer has gained the victim’s trust, the scammer will spin a story asking the victim for money via wire transfer or prepaid debit card. After receiving the requested funds, the scammer will disappear. Alternatively, the scammer will ask their “date” to share personal financial information and then go on to empty the victim’s accounts.
 

Here’s how to spot a romance scam:

If you're looking for love online, watch out for these red flags.

• The profile looks too good to be true.
• The person rushes you into a relationship.
• The person asks you for money or personal/financial information.
• The person wants you to keep your relationship a secret from your other loved ones.
   

Play it safe with these tips:

• Never share personal details online with anyone whose identity you cannot verify.
• Only visit secure sites and keep your social media pages private.
• Research the name on the profile to see if the details check out.
• Do a reverse-image search of the profile picture to see if it’s a stock photo or an image that was plucked off the internet.
• Do not send money to anyone online!
   

If you suspect a romance scam:

According to the FTC, 81% of romance scams are unreported by victims.

• If you suspect fraud, stop all communication with the scammer. Block the scammer’s number and spam their emails.
• If you’ve already paid a romance scammer with a prepaid gift card, call the company that issued it to ask them to refund your money.
• Report the scam to the FTC.

Your security is our priority at Forest Area Federal Credit Union. To learn more about recognizing and avoiding scams, visit our Fraud Awareness and Protection Center.

Fraud Awareness and Prevention Center