Romance Scams
Protect your heart and wallet from dating scams, catfishing, and online relationship fraud. Learn to spot fake profiles and emotional manipulation.
Back to All ScamsHow Romance Scams Work
Romance scammers create fake profiles on dating sites, social media, or contact victims through email. They build emotional relationships over weeks or months, often claiming to be in love. Once trust is established, they create emergencies or opportunities that require money.
These scams are particularly devastating because they exploit both emotions and finances. Victims often continue sending money even when friends and family express concerns, because they believe they're helping someone they love.
Common Examples
Warning Signs
- Professes love very quickly, often within days or weeks
- Refuses to meet in person or talk on video calls
- Photos look too professional or model-like
- Claims to be traveling, deployed overseas, or in another country
- Asks for money for emergencies, travel, or other urgent needs
- Stories about their life don't add up or change over time
- Grammar and language patterns suggest non-native speaker
How to Protect Yourself
- Be skeptical of people who contact you first on dating sites
- Insist on video calls before developing feelings
- Never send money, gifts, or personal information to online contacts
- Do reverse image searches on profile photos
- Be wary of people who claim to be traveling or overseas
- Trust your instincts if something feels wrong
- Talk to friends and family about your online relationships
What to Do If You've Been Scammed
- Stop all communication with the scammer immediately
- Don't send any more money regardless of their claims
- Contact your bank to report fraudulent transactions
- Report to dating sites where you met the scammer
- File reports with FTC, FBI IC3, and local police
- Seek emotional support from friends, family, or counselors
- Be cautious of recovery scams - scammers may contact you offering to help recover your money
How to Report Romance Scams
Report romance scams and dating fraud
Report to FTCFile complaints about online romance fraud
Report to IC3Remember: You're Not Alone
Romance scam victims often feel embarrassed, but these crimes happen to intelligent people from all walks of life. The emotional manipulation used by scammers is sophisticated and designed to bypass logical thinking.