How to Spot Romance Scams 💔
Learn how to recognize online romance scams and protect yourself from people who build fake relationships to steal money.
How to Spot Romance Scams 💔
Romance scammers create fake profiles on dating sites, social media, or apps. They build a relationship with you over weeks or months, then ask for money.
How This Scam Works 🚨
A scammer reaches out to you online and begins a relationship. They are often charming, attentive, and say all the right things. Over time they build trust. Then they start asking for money because of an "emergency":
- "I need money for a plane ticket to come visit you"
- "I am stuck overseas and need help with medical bills"
- "I need help with a temporary financial problem"
- "I want to send you a package but you need to pay the customs fee"
They always have a reason they cannot meet in person or video chat.
Red Flags to Watch For 🚩
- ❌ They say they love you very quickly — sometimes within days
- ❌ They can never meet in person or do a video call
- ❌ They claim to be in the military, working overseas, or on an oil rig
- ❌ They ask for money for emergencies, travel, or medical bills
- ❌ They want you to send money by wire transfer, gift cards, or cryptocurrency
- ❌ They ask you not to tell friends or family about the relationship
- ❌ Their photos look like a model or stock photos
What To Do If This Happens 🛡️
Step 1
Stop sending money immediately — no matter what reason they give
Step 2
Do not feel embarrassed — romance scammers are professionals and this happens to smart people every day
Step 3
Talk to a family member or friend you trust about the situation
Step 4
Report the profile to the website or app where you met them
Step 5
Report it to the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov
💡
Tip: If someone you have never met in person asks you for money, it is almost certainly a scam — no matter how real the relationship feels.
Worried about an online relationship? Silver Support Hub can help you think it through safely! 💙