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Global
Romance Scam
Fake online relationships built to manipulate victims into sending money for fabricated emergencies.
How This Scam Works
- 1Scammer creates an attractive fake profile on dating sites or social media
- 2They invest weeks or months building an emotional connection
- 3They always have excuses for not meeting in person or video calling
- 4Eventually they claim a financial emergency and ask for money
- 5The emergencies continue and requests escalate
Red Flags to Watch For
- Profile photos that look like stock images or models
- Claims to be military, offshore worker, or abroad
- Cannot video call or always has technical issues
- Professes love very quickly
- Requests money for emergencies, travel, or medical bills
What to Do If You're a Victim
- Never send money to someone you haven't met in person
- Do a reverse image search on their profile photos
- Be skeptical of people who claim to love you quickly
- Report the profile to the dating platform
- Talk to friends or family about the relationship for perspective