How can a scammer lure a woman into a web of deception and convince her to trust enough to send him money?

One lonely woman believed the man she met on a dating website was her soul mate. He convinced her he loved her, wanted to be with her, and would protect her from harm. This distant relationship was exciting, and was a tonic for her boredom. She continued behind the computer screen communication with him for over ten months, sending him thousands of dollars. He had her heartstrings in a firm hold. Would he ever come to be with her as he promised?

Romance scams occur when a criminal adopts a fake online identity to gain a victim’s affection and confidence. Often, the scammer will utilize religion to garner trust with the victim. The scammer uses the illusion of a romantic or close relationship to manipulate and/or steal from the victim. The criminals who carry out Romance scams are experts at what they do and will seem genuine, caring, and believable. Con artists are present on most dating and social media sites. The scammer’s intention is to establish a relationship as quickly as possible, endear himself to the victim, and gain trust. Scammers may propose marriage and make plans to meet in person, but that will never happen. Eventually, they will ask for money. Scam artists often say they are in the military or a trades-based industry engaged in projects outside the U.S. That makes it easier to avoid meeting in person-and more plausible when they ask for money for a medical emergency or unexpected legal fee.

Protect Against Confidence Fraud/Romance Scams

Be careful what you post and make public online. Scammers can use details shared on social media and dating sites to better understand and target you.

Go slowly and ask lots of questions.

For Romance scams, research the person’s photo and profile using online searches to see if the image, name, or details have been used elsewhere.

Beware if the individual seems too perfect or quickly asks you to leave a dating service or social media site to communicate directly.

Beware if the individual attempts to isolate you from friends and family or requests inappropriate photos or financial information that could later be used to extort you.

Beware if the individual promises to meet in person but then always comes up with an excuse why he or she cannot. If you have not met the person after a few months, for whatever reason, you have good reason to be suspicious.

Never send money to anyone you have only communicated with online or by phone.

The FBI website Internet Crime Complaint Center - IC3 - reports $281 million dollars were lost by Over 60 victims in 2020, and Romance Scams were the highest type of loss.