Scammers create a seemingly perfect online persona to lure victims into a relationship. They then 'love bomb' the victim with constant communication to build a strong emotional connection. Eventually, a fabricated crisis or urgent need for money is presented, leveraging the victim's emotional investment to extract funds. The scam often escalates with increasing pressure and emotional manipulation if the victim hesitates to pay.
Who Is Targeted
Individuals seeking companionship and love online, who may be more susceptible to emotional connection and flattery. This can include people of any age or background who are looking for a romantic partner.
Red Flags — Warning Signs
The person is too good to be true, out of your league.
Extremely rapid pace of communication and excessive 'love bombing'.
The scammer tries to move the conversation off the dating platform quickly.
A fabricated problem or crisis is introduced, requiring financial assistance.
Increasing pressure and emotional manipulation to send money, linking it to the relationship's continuation.
How to Protect Yourself
{"Be wary of profiles that seem too perfect or are significantly out of your league.","Slow down the pace of communication and avoid excessive 'love bombing'.","Never send money to someone you have only met online, regardless of the story.","Be skeptical if they try to move the conversation to a private platform immediately."}
Phrases Scammers Use
“They're too good to be true”“Love bomb you”“They've promised you all the future faking”“If only this were solved”“If this money is not paid, you don't love them”
Video: Real Example of This Scam
The Romance Scam Playbook: How To Spot The 5-Step Con