Romance scams involve fraudsters creating fake relationships—often online—to gain trust and steal money. While anyone can be a target, seniors and vulnerable individuals are particularly at risk due to their trusting nature and limited familiarity with online scams.
Knowing the signs can help you protect yourself and your loved ones.
How Romance Scams Work:
Romance scammers are skilled at building emotional connections quickly. They often reach out through dating apps, social media or unexpected emails, pretending to seek love.
Here’s how the scam typically unfolds:
- They make a quick emotional connection. Scammers express strong feelings early, claiming a “special bond” after just a few conversations.
- They create a believable backstory. Many claim to work in professions that explain their inability to meet—such as military service, international business or humanitarian work.
- They promise to meet, but never do. Plans are made but repeatedly canceled with last-minute excuses.
- They ask for money. Eventually, they claim to have an emergency—medical bills, travel expenses or family crises—and request financial help.
Common Scammer Requests
- Gift Cards. A major red flag! Scammers often ask for gift cards (like iTunes, Amazon or Google Play), claiming it’s for emergencies, travel expenses or surprise gifts. If a loved one is asked to buy gift cards for someone they’ve never met, it’s likely a scam.
- Wire Transfers or Money Orders. These are hard to trace and impossible to recover once sent.
- Personal Information. Scammers may ask for sensitive data like banking details, Social Security numbers or passwords under the guise of trust.
How to Protect Yourself and Your Loved Ones
- Stay connected. Regularly check in with loved ones, especially seniors, about new online friendships or romantic relationships.
- Talk openly about scams. Reducing stigma around scams can make it easier for loved ones to ask for help.
- Be cautious with personal information. Never share financial details with someone you haven’t met in person.
- Watch for changes in behavior. If a loved one becomes secretive about a new relationship or suddenly starts sending money, it could be a sign of a romance scam.
If something feels off, trust your instincts. Encourage open conversations with family and friends about online safety.
If you believe you or a loved one is being targeted by a romance scam, cut off communication immediately and report it to the authorities. You can also contact F&M Bank if you suspect any fraudulent activity involving your accounts.