💔
Romance Scams
Scammers build fake emotional relationships online to eventually steal money. Victims lose more per person than almost any other scam.
$1.14B
Annual losses (US)
70,000+ annually (US)
Reported victims/year
Report Now
FTC: ReportFraud.ftc.gov
🎭 How Scammers Do It: Tactics
- ▸ Create fake profiles on dating apps and social media using stolen photos
- ▸ Spend weeks or months building emotional connection before asking for money
- ▸ Claim to be US military deployed overseas, doctors, engineers working abroad
- ▸ Refuse to meet in person or do video calls, citing various excuses
- ▸ Use "pig butchering" — introduce fake crypto investments after trust is built
- ▸ Ask for gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency
- ▸ Manufacture emergencies — medical crises, legal troubles, travel costs
🚩 Red Flags: Stop If You See These
⚠ Profile seems too perfect — model looks, impressive career
⚠ Always has an excuse not to meet in person or video call
⚠ Declares love unusually fast (within days or weeks)
⚠ Asks for money for emergencies, travel, or medical bills
⚠ Claims to be military, engineer, or doctor working overseas
⚠ Requests payment in gift cards, wire transfers, or crypto
⚠ Gets angry or manipulative when you question their story
🛡️ How to Protect Yourself
1. Reverse image search profile photos to check for stolen images
2. Never send money to someone you have not met face-to-face
3. Video call early and often — scammers avoid live video
4. Research their claimed employer or location independently
5. Be suspicious of anyone who avoids meeting after months of contact
6. Talk to friends or family — outside perspective catches scams
📋 How to Report This Scam
Report to FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov and the FBI IC3. Also report the fake profile to the dating platform.