Fraud Talk: Romance Scams

One of the most prevalent scams out there is the romance scam. The romance scam targets both the young and the elderly, exploiting their innate desire for love and companionship. These scams can start on social media, dating websites, receiving seeming wrong number text messages, and other platforms. Whether you're a young person searching for love or an older individual seeking companionship after the loss of a spouse, it's important to be aware that this vulnerability can be exploited.

If someone in a new relationship asks you for money, especially if you've never even met them, that’s a major red flag and a time to seriously consider ending the relationship. This is easier said than done, but you need to understand that while it may feel good to be in this relationship right now, it's not real. The person on the other end is simply praying on your loneliness to get to your hard-earned money. Once your money is drained, they will leave you. This isn’t meant to scare you away from relationships, but to make you aware of the warning signs that the other person may have bad intentions.

Another way fraudsters use romance to scam you is to trick you into investing in cryptocurrencies by showcasing how much they have made. If money and investments become the daily topic of conversation in your newfound relationship, chances are your are in the middle of a scam. This scam is particularly powerful because many of us struggle to let go of relationships, even when its draining your bank account, retirement funds, or the value of your home.

In conclusion, a relationship that puts your financial stability at risk is simply not worth it.