Romance scams rank number one on total reported losses

How it works

The scammer contacts you on dating apps or social media with an attractive fake profile. They build a relationship over weeks or months, then claim to need money for a medical emergency, travel costs, or military deployment. They ask you to wire money, use gift cards, or mail cash. Many victims send money repeatedly as new crises are invented.

Red flags to watch for

• Profile pictures don't match when you do a reverse image search
• Person claims to be military stationed abroad and cannot meet in person
• They ask for money after a few weeks of chatting online
• Story has inconsistencies when you ask follow-up questions
• They ask you to use untraceable payment methods like wire transfer or gift cards
• Friends or family express concern about the relationship

What to do

Do not send money to anyone you have not met in person, no matter what emergency they claim. Talk to someone you trust about the relationship if you feel unsure. If you spot a fake profile, report it to the dating or social media site, then file a complaint at FTC.gov/complaint. If you already sent money, contact the payment service immediately and report the scam to the FTC.