Romance scams or fraud are social engineering scams that start with meeting someone on a dating app or a social media site. A scammer will create a fake dating profile to target individuals to try to start a long-distance relationship and then ask the victim to send them money.
How can I spot a romance scam?
There are several red flags that may indicate a romance scam:
A quick transition from dating sites to other platforms like WhatsApp or SMS.
Expressing strong feelings rapidly and pushing the relationship to progress too quickly.
Claiming to live far away, often in the military or an international job with constant travel.
Or anything else that makes you feel uncomfortable or seems out of the ordinary.
What else should I look out for?
Be wary if the fraudster requests pictures and do not share any images or other potentially incriminating information that could be used for blackmail later.
What conversation topics should I look out for?
Scammers often bring up common topics in their messages, claiming they have interests in things like investments or cryptocurrency, and may offer opportunities for you to get involved in these ventures and make unrealistic claims.
How do scammers ask for money?
Scammers can request money for various reasons, such as medical emergencies, plane tickets, visas, or business expenses. They may offer a range of payment options, including cash apps and wire transfers, or direct you to download money transfer apps like NALA.
How should I respond if I suspect a romance scam?
If you notice any of these signs, cease communication and report the profile to the dating site. Do not send money or share personal information. Be cautious and prioritise your safety.
For more tips on how to stay safe whilst managing your money, check out this article or learn more about how to protect yourself from romance scams below.
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