Greg's Corner

Recognizing romance scams in a military town

By Greg Collier

Jacksonville, Florida, has a significant military history and continues to have a strong military presence today. It is home to several major military installations. The area’s military roots can be traced back to World War II, when the need for naval air operation bases led to the development of Naval Air Station Jacksonville. This installation became a central hub for naval aviation training and operations.

So it should come as no surprise that Jacksonville, like many other military town, is vulnerable to military romance scams. One of the more common tactics romance scammers use is impersonating military service members. They craft believable stories and manipulate emotions to exploit people, often leading to requests for money. If you suspect that someone you’ve met online might be a scammer posing as a military member, here’s how to spot the fakes and protect yourself.

Scammers frequently use stolen photos of real military personnel. If you’re doubtful about a profile, a reverse image search can be your first line of defense. This allows you to see if the photo appears elsewhere on the internet, perhaps on multiple profiles under different names, which is a red flag.

Take the individual’s name and add terms like “scam” or “imposter” to your search query. This can reveal if others have reported similar experiences or if the person has been flagged as a scammer. This step can provide you with crucial information that might save you from falling into a trap.

The most glaring red flag is when they ask for money. Scammers will weave elaborate tales of need, but the story always ends with them asking for your financial help. If your online acquaintance asks for money, such as emergencies, equipment, or even plane tickets, be very skeptical. Remember, genuine connections do not start with a financial transaction.

If they request money through non-traditional channels like gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrencies, it’s almost certain that you’re dealing with a scammer. These methods are preferred by fraudsters due to the difficulty of tracing and retrieving funds once they’re sent.

Scammers often have reasons why they can’t meet in person or appear on a video call. They might claim to be stationed overseas or in a highly secure area. If you find inconsistencies in their stories or continuous excuses that keep them from meeting you face-to-face, it’s likely a scam.

Scammers are adept at forming quick emotional connections. Talks of love and marriage can come too quickly when someone has ulterior motives. Be cautious of someone who professes deep feelings without ever having met you, as this is a common tactic used to lower your defenses.

Always approach online relationships with caution, especially if the person claims to be a military service member stationed overseas. Use the tools and tips above to verify their identity. Protecting your heart and your wallet starts with skepticism and verifying the authenticity of those you meet online. Remember, if it seems too good to be true, it probably is.