Reports of romance scams hit record highs in 2021
Scammers pose as romantic partners on dating apps and social media to manipulate people into sending money, gift cards, or cryptocurrency. Losses hit a record 547 million dollars in 2021.
How it works
A scammer creates a fake profile with a stolen attractive photo and claims to have things in common with you. They build trust over weeks or months, then ask for money to cover emergencies, medical bills, travel costs, or investment opportunities. They may ask you to wire money, buy gift cards, send cryptocurrency, or help transfer funds as a favor. Some pose as investors and convince you to send money for forex or cryptocurrency trades that you never see again.
Red flags to watch for
- New online contact refuses to video chat or meet in person
- They ask you to send money, gift cards, or cryptocurrency
- They claim to need money for emergencies, medical bills, or travel
- They offer investment tips and pressure you to invest quickly
- Their story has convenient excuses like military service overseas or offshore oil work
- They send a check and ask you to wire back some of the funds
What to do
Do not send money, gift cards, or cryptocurrency to anyone you have not met in person. If someone you met online asks for any form of payment, they are a scammer. Reverse-image search their profile photo. Talk to a trusted friend or family member about the relationship and listen if they express concern. Report the profile to the dating app or social media platform, then file a report at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
If this reached you
Source: FTC . Scam Sentinel summarizes official guidance in plain language; it is a decision aid, not a guarantee.