Falling For Fraud: How to Protect Yourself from Romance Scams
In the world of online dating, finding a connection has never been easier. But behind the screens, scammers are using the promise of love to steal MILLIONS of dollars each year. Romance scams are one of the fastest growing forms of fraud that targets people’s emotions, trust, and hopes of a connection.
With over 15 years of experience fraud fighting, I have seen firsthand the financial and emotional devastation these scams have caused on our own members. The best defense is awareness-knowing what to look for, how a romance scam works, and what steps to take you can keep yourself safe against this scam.
What is a romance scam? A romance scam happens when a fraudster creates a fake profile online with the intent to build a relationship with a victim. Once connection and trust are established, the scammer begins asking for money.
Common red flags:
They move fast-Emotional bond is started quickly! Scammers will talk about the future and how you are their soulmate sometimes within days.
They avoid meeting in person-there is always an excuse to not facetime or zoom. This will show their true identity.
They create urgent financial emergencies with promises to pay you back- This sometimes looks like family medical emergencies, frozen bank accounts, late/unexpected bills, money to travel to see you.
They want to move the conversation off the platform where you originally started the conversation. Common apps are WhatsApp, texting, or other private channels.
Their story does not add up-Inconsistencies in their job, background, photos, or online presence.
How romance scammers manipulate their victims
This scam works because they prey on your emotions. The scammers often use
Love bombing-excessive affection early on.
Isolation-encouraging secrecy.
Guilt trips-making you feel responsible for their own situation.
Future faking-promising marriage, travel and even life together.
How to protect yourself
Verify before you trust-use reverse image search, check profiles, research their name and job details.
NEVER send money or gift cards-legitimate partners won’t ask for financial help.
Be cautious about sharing personal information- scammers can use your information to manipulate or steal your identity.
Talk to someone you trust-friend or family member, ME. Someone outside the situation can often spot red flags faster.
Repost suspicious profiles-dating apps and social media platforms rely on reports to keep users safe.
If you think that you are being scammed, stop all communication immediately. Do not send any money or give out any personal information like online banking username and password, or any other personal information. Document everything. Take screen shots of messages, username, receipts. Notify and alert us at the credit union, IC3.gov, the dating platform you meet the scammer on as well as local law enforcement.
Anyone can be a victim. Awareness saves money, trust, and lives. By understanding the warning signs and sharing information we can help protect our communities from this deeply personal type of scam. If you ever feel like you may be caught in a romance scam, reach out to me. I will be there for you and help walk you through the situation and protect you and your money.
Stay aware, stay cautious, stay protected.
Post Author:
Brittany Swanson
Fraud and Card Services Manager
BSwanson@gcefcu.org
The opinions expressed on this page are for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide legal or financial advice. The views expressed are those of the author of the article and may not reflect the views of the credit union.