Romance Scam
Scammers create fake romantic relationships online to emotionally manipulate victims into sending money or sensitive information.
Target Audiences
How It Works
Scammers create fake profiles on dating apps or social networks using stolen photos and detailed backstories. They build emotional trust over weeks or months, often moving the conversation quickly to private messaging platforms like WhatsApp or Telegram. Once emotional dependency is established, the scammer introduces a "crisis" (medical emergency, business problem, blocked account, military leave fee) and asks for money. Over time, requests escalate and may include investment opportunities, especially fake crypto platforms. The scammer avoids video calls, refuses in-person meetings, and often claims to live or work abroad.
Red Flags
- Refusal to meet in person or do video chat despite weeks or months of contact.
- Emotional intensity very early in the relationship – professions of love within days.
- Requests for money or gifts, often with elaborate justifications about emergencies.
- Stories about being abroad, on "secret missions," or unable to access their own funds.
- Requests to keep the relationship secret from friends and family.
Protect Yourself
- Never send money to someone you haven't met in person.
- Verify profile photos via reverse image search.
- Keep conversations within the dating app as long as possible.
- Be skeptical of sob stories and investment pitches from online romantic interests.
- Talk to trusted friends or family about new online relationships – an outside perspective can help spot red flags.
Visual Examples
What To Do If You've Been Scammed
- Stop communication immediately and block the person on all platforms.
- Report the profile to the dating platform or social network.
- If money was sent – contact your bank immediately to try to stop or reverse the transfer.
- Preserve all messages and screenshots as evidence.
- Consider seeking emotional support – these scams cause real trauma and there is no shame in asking for help.
Related Scams
Fake Investment & Crypto Scam
Scammers lure victims into fake trading platforms or "guaranteed returns" crypto investments.
Friend Impersonation Scam
Scammers hijack accounts to pose as someone you know and ask for money.
Sextortion Scam
Scammers threaten to release fake or stolen intimate material unless paid.