Military Romance Scams
I'm a soldier overseas — I need money to see you
Scammers pose as military personnel deployed overseas, building romantic relationships through emails or dating sites. Once trust is established, they fabricate reasons they need money: supplies, travel expenses, hotel bills, or medical emergencies.
What to Watch For
- Claims to be deployed overseas but communication is inconsistent
- Profile photos are stolen military stock photos (searchable online)
- Requests money for hotel stays, food, gifts, or travel to visit you
- Asks you to open a PO Box or receive packages on their behalf
Examples
""Dear, I've been deployed overseas for 6 months now. I've fallen deeply in love with you through our emails. I need $500 for a hotel when I get leave to visit you. Can you help me? I'll pay you back as soon as I see you.""
Why it works: Military service inspires respect and trust. The deployment story explains why they can't video chat or meet in person. Victims feel they're helping a hero.
What to Do
Active-duty military members are paid and provided for by the military — they don't need money from people they met online. Reverse-image-search any profile photos. The DoD Scam Alert hotline is 1-877-222-8478.