Online Romance Scams
I found love online — they need help with money
Scammers build romantic relationships online, then fabricate emergencies requiring financial help. They may spend months building trust before asking for money.
What to Watch For
- New relationship that moves very quickly emotionally
- Someone you've never met in person asking for money
- Their "emergency" always involves wire transfers or gift cards
- Video calls are always "hard to arrange" but photos are available
Examples
""I love you so much, but I need your help. My bank account is frozen and I can't afford the hospital bill. Can you send $300 through Western Union? I promise I'll pay you back.""
Why it works: Love + desperation = powerful combination that makes rational thinking very difficult.
What to Do
Never send money to someone you haven't met in person. If a romantic interest asks for money, they are scamming you regardless of how genuine the relationship feels.