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  • Geebo 8:00 am on August 20, 2025 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , , romance scam, ,   

    AI Romance Scam Costs Senior $47K 

    By Greg Collier

    A Florida resident recently fell victim to a romance scam that highlights how criminals continue to exploit both technology and human emotion to steal money.

    What began as a simple Facebook friend request from someone claiming to be an interior decorator quickly escalated into an elaborate scheme. The relationship was fostered through frequent online conversations, phone calls, and even video chats, which were later revealed to have been AI-generated. The scammer eventually fabricated a story about traveling overseas for work and needing money for documentation. Trusting the story, the victim sent thousands of dollars, first through traditional transfers and later through cryptocurrency, ultimately losing nearly $50,000.

    When the financial demands became more frequent and severe, the case was turned over to local authorities. Investigators traced the activity not to the United States, as the scammer had claimed, but overseas, making recovery of the funds unlikely.

    The toll of these scams is not only financial but also deeply emotional. Many victims struggle with feelings of shame, betrayal, and depression after realizing they were manipulated. Experts warn that this combination of financial and psychological harm is why romance scams are among the most devastating forms of fraud.

    One reason scammers push for payment through cryptocurrency is that digital transactions are difficult to trace and nearly impossible to reverse once completed. Unlike bank transfers, where investigators may be able to follow the money, cryptocurrency allows criminals to move funds quickly through anonymous wallets.

    These scams also rely on the careful recycling of fake identities. Criminals frequently use stolen photographs from social media, professional sites, or modeling portfolios to create convincing personas. The same fictitious character can appear on multiple platforms at once, luring several victims simultaneously.

    Scammers often pose as successful businesspeople with international ties, which gives credibility to requests for money tied to supposed overseas projects. This narrative can make fabricated expenses like travel, customs paperwork, or business emergencies sound more believable.

    Law enforcement agencies caution that these schemes are becoming more advanced, with scammers now deploying artificial intelligence to create convincing fake personas. Older adults are often targeted because of loneliness or vulnerability, and once money is transferred through cryptocurrency or wire services, it is rarely recovered.

    Authorities stress the importance of vigilance when forming online relationships. Verifying identities, avoiding financial transactions with people only known online, and seeking input from trusted friends or family can help prevent fraud. Victims are encouraged to report these crimes to federal agencies so investigators can track patterns and attempt to disrupt organized networks behind them.

    Romance scams remain a serious and growing problem, and cases like this one serve as a reminder of the importance of caution when personal and financial trust is built online.

     

  • Geebo 8:01 am on August 11, 2025 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: dark web, , romance scam, scam hunters, , trauma bonding   

    Even Scam Experts Can Get Scammed 

    Even Scam Experts Can Get Scammed

    By Greg Collier

    A recent report from The Guardian highlights how even those who are knowledgeable about scams can still fall victim. The subject of the report is a woman from the UK who has spent years warning others about online fraud, only to later find herself targeted in a sophisticated identity theft scheme.

    Her journey began with an online presence built after serious health challenges, which she shared publicly to connect with others. This openness attracted the attention of a romance scammer who attempted to exploit her by using a fabricated story to create a sense of connection. Recognizing the signs, she ended contact and began using her social media platform to educate others about such tactics, especially a method known as trauma bonding, where scammers exploit a victim’s personal hardships to gain trust.

    Over time, she gained thousands of followers and actively worked to track and expose fraudsters. Her growing public role in anti-scam advocacy made it seem unlikely that she would fall victim herself. However, she later received a letter, appearing to come from HMRC, requesting identification documents for a tax rebate. HMRC, short for Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs, is the UK’s equivalent to the Internal Revenue Service in the United States, responsible for collecting taxes and administering certain government programs. The letter was convincing enough that she sent the requested information.

    It soon became clear that the letter was fraudulent. Criminals used her details to create a fake business in her name, which was likely involved in money laundering. Multiple fraudulent loan applications followed, damaging her credit score and leading to legal threats over debts she never incurred. Police were able to shut down the fake business, but her personal details were found to be for sale on the dark web. Stolen information is often traded in bulk on these underground marketplaces, where criminals purchase it to commit identity theft, open fraudulent accounts, or conduct financial scams. Once data appears there, it can circulate for years, being reused by different groups for various schemes.

    While she was able to prove she was the victim of fraud, preventing further financial loss, the incident demonstrates that experience and awareness do not make someone immune to scams. Even individuals who deal with scams on a regular basis can be caught off guard by convincing tactics and realistic forgeries.

    Her decision to share her experience publicly was driven by the hope that it might prevent others from suffering the same fate. As her story shows, anyone can be targeted, and anyone can fall victim, regardless of how prepared or informed they believe themselves to be.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on June 12, 2025 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , , , romance scam,   

    Apple Scam Turned Romance Scam, Costs Victim $1M 

    A troubling scam that started with a simple internet search has become a cautionary tale about how fraud can evolve from impersonation to manipulation and, ultimately, devastating financial loss. The incident began when a man attempted to send money through Apple Pay but encountered an issue. Hoping to resolve the problem, he searched online for a customer service number. Unfortunately, the number he found was fraudulent.

    He was connected to someone posing as an Apple representative. The scammer, identifying herself as a support agent, claimed that his account had been compromised and that immediate action was necessary to protect his finances. What followed was a calculated effort to gain his trust and strip him of his life savings.

    The scam began with requests for gift cards, a well-known tactic used by criminals to extract untraceable funds. The scammer offered scripted responses in case store employees became suspicious. This was followed by months of daily interaction, during which the fraudster created a false sense of companionship and intimacy, turning the financial scheme into a romance scam.

    As trust deepened, the scammer asked the man to retrieve his physical assets from a precious metals depository. He complied, believing he was safeguarding his wealth, only to turn it over to individuals sent to his home. These individuals, known as “money mules,” transport or launder money for criminal networks. Some do so knowingly, while others are themselves manipulated into participating.

    The scammer eventually vanished once the man’s resources were depleted, leaving him with over $1 million in losses.

    The emotional and financial toll is significant, especially for someone who had spent decades building a stable life. Although no arrests have been made, the incident serves as a serious reminder of how quickly trust can be weaponized when criminals take advantage of technology, loneliness, and confusion.

    This case highlights the critical need for caution when seeking customer support online. Fake support numbers often top search results due to paid advertisements or fraudulent search engine optimization tactics. It is essential to visit official websites directly when looking for contact information. Anyone who receives unexpected instructions involving gift cards or in-person exchanges should treat such communications as highly suspicious.

    The best protection remains suspicion. Never transfer money or valuables to a stranger under pressure. Always verify identities independently, especially when financial accounts are involved. While law enforcement continues to investigate, the loss already suffered cannot be undone. But if one person learns from this incident and avoids a similar fate, the story may serve a greater purpose.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on May 6, 2025 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , , , romance scam,   

    Romance Scam Money Mule Sentenced 

    By Greg Collier

    A recent federal sentencing in Phoenix underscores the growing threat of online financial fraud and the serious legal consequences that can come, even to those who claim they were unaware of their role in a scam. A man who laundered nearly $4 million linked to online romance scams was sentenced to 17 months in prison following his guilty plea to conspiring to structure financial transactions in a way that evaded federal detection.

    The case revealed that the individual played a central role in a wider romance scam operation. By opening and managing dozens of bank accounts under various names, he helped conceal and distribute funds obtained from vulnerable victims, many of whom were misled into believing they were helping loved ones in distress. Surveillance footage and financial records placed him at the heart of the scheme, executing transactions designed to fly under the radar of mandatory financial reporting laws.

    Authorities emphasized that even though the man claimed he believed the money was intended for legitimate business ventures, the methods used to move the funds were deceptive and pointed to a clear effort to obscure their origin. The use of fraudulent identities and structured withdrawals ultimately served the goals of a sophisticated criminal enterprise. In at least one documented instance, a victim lost close to $200,000 by sending funds to an address linked to one of the fraudulent identities used in the scheme.

    This prosecution highlights the increasing prevalence of romance scams and related frauds. Federal investigators have seen a rise in schemes like “pig butchering,” where fraudsters spend time gaining victims’ trust before persuading them to invest in fake cryptocurrency platforms.

    Law enforcement continues to stress the importance of reporting suspected scams, no matter how embarrassing or personal the situation may feel. Older adults in particular are often targeted, and the financial damage is frequently compounded by emotional distress and long-term financial insecurity.

    It is critical for the public to understand that even if someone is unknowingly participating in a scam, actions taken to bypass federal regulations, such as using false identities or structuring financial transactions to avoid detection, can still lead to serious criminal charges. Being unaware of the full scope of a scam does not eliminate liability if the conduct involves deceitful or unlawful behavior.

    Staying vigilant, verifying identities, and avoiding pressure to move money under unusual circumstances can help reduce exposure to such crimes. Anyone who suspects they have been targeted should contact authorities immediately to minimize further harm and aid investigations into these increasingly complex fraud operations.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on April 30, 2025 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: romance scam, ,   

    Romance Scam Hits Small-Town Wyoming 

    By Greg Collier

    A recent incident in the small town of Lovell, Wyoming, underscores a sobering truth. Online scams do not just target those in bustling cities or tech-heavy regions. Even in close-knit rural communities, no one is immune to digital deception.

    In this case, a local woman became the target of a romance scam after a well-meaning family member signed her up for a dating site. Although she was not seeking a relationship, she soon found herself fielding message after message from strangers claiming to be lonely widowers. Many of them followed a script, asking the same questions and offering similar life stories. With no prior experience on dating platforms, she did her best to proceed carefully, but the patterns went unnoticed at first.

    Eventually, one online suitor stood out. He presented himself as a hardworking professional traveling abroad, someone grounded, warm, and seemingly sincere. Over time, he built trust without immediately asking for money. He sent flowers, shared music, and made her feel seen. The emotional connection grew, and when a crisis arose, she stepped in to help, believing she was supporting a friend in need.

    What she did not realize until much later was that the crisis was invented. The requests for help were part of a well-crafted manipulation. She ended up sending funds she could not afford to lose. Thankfully, with the help of family and a trusted financial institution, the damage was limited. But the emotional toll was real.

    Scams like these are often underreported, partly due to embarrassment and shame. Victims may blame themselves, but experts stress that anyone can be fooled. The emotional tactics used by scammers are calculated and convincing. Once they succeed, victims may be flagged as potential targets and find themselves approached by other scammers. These operations are organized, profitable, and often shielded by international jurisdictions, making recovery of funds nearly impossible.

    Local law enforcement officials say they are limited in how much they can do unless they are contacted before money changes hands. Once a scam progresses, jurisdictional challenges and international laundering schemes make intervention difficult. This highlights the need for early reporting and open dialogue between the public and authorities.

    In rural areas like Lovell, the belief that “it can’t happen here” can create a false sense of security. But the internet has changed the landscape. Scammers are no longer limited by geography. An internet connection is all it takes for a fraudster to virtually slip through the front door of any home.

    Authorities urge people to remain vigilant when interacting online, especially in emotionally vulnerable spaces like dating platforms. Building trust with someone online should never happen at the expense of common sense. Verification is key, and friends, family, banks, and law enforcement are valuable resources when things feel off.

    This story is a reminder that while technology connects us, it also opens doors for exploitation. Even in the most peaceful towns, the threat is real.

     

  • Geebo 9:00 am on February 10, 2025 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , romance scam, ,   

    Love Scams: The Costly Trap of Fake Romance 

    By Greg Collier

    As Valentine’s Day approaches, many people are looking for love, and online dating has become a common avenue for connecting with potential partners. However, for some, it’s not just romance they find online, but a scam that can leave them heartbroken and financially devastated. Romance scams are a year-round problem, not just a seasonal issue tied to holidays like Valentine’s Day. One of the most dangerous forms of these scams is known as the ‘pig slaughtering’ scam, a term used to describe a method where scammers gradually ‘fatten’ their victims with affection and promises before taking everything they can.

    These scams usually start with a friendly chat and emotional connection, often with someone pretending to be a widower, soldier, or businessman who is seeking love. What seems like a genuine relationship quickly spirals into a request for money, often in the form of cryptocurrency investments. The scammer builds trust over time, sharing personal details and even engaging in intimate conversations. They may even send pictures of themselves and their families, making the victim feel more connected. However, these images are often stolen from other people, and the emotional bond is nothing more than a carefully constructed ruse.

    Once the victim has become emotionally invested, the scammer presents an opportunity for a financial ‘investment’ that promises significant returns. This is where the scam takes a dangerous turn. Victims are encouraged to send money, often starting with small amounts to build trust. As the scammer continues to play on their emotions, the victim is led to invest more and more, sometimes draining their life savings. In most cases, cryptocurrency is involved, making it harder to trace the stolen funds.

    The reason this scam is so effective is simple. People are looking for love, and that desire makes them vulnerable to manipulation. The scammers prey on these feelings, taking their time to ‘fatten’ the victim with affection, attention, and promises of a better future. It’s a slow and calculated process that allows the scammer to gain the victim’s trust before striking when the victim is most susceptible.

    As the victim’s money is taken, the scammer often disappears, leaving behind nothing but heartbreak and financial ruin. In some cases, victims realize too late that they were not speaking to the person they thought they were. By the time they begin questioning the legitimacy of their relationship, it’s already too late to recover the stolen funds.

    While this scam is widespread, it is particularly dangerous because of its emotional impact. Victims often feel embarrassed, ashamed, or even personally betrayed. It’s important to remember that this is not their fault. Scammers are skilled at exploiting emotions and using psychological manipulation to make their victims believe they are truly loved.

    As we head into another Valentine’s Day, it’s essential to be aware that scams like these do not disappear after the holiday season. Whether you’re single and looking for love or simply enjoying the company of others, always be cautious when interacting with people online. If someone asks for money, especially through unconventional means like cryptocurrency, it’s a major red flag. It’s crucial to keep all communication on the dating platform until you’ve built a genuine relationship with someone, and never send money to anyone you haven’t met in person.

    Romance scams are a growing issue, and it’s important to stay aware. Trust your instincts, and if something feels off, don’t be afraid to cut off communication and report suspicious behavior. As Valentine’s Day reminds us of the importance of love and connection, let’s also remember to protect our hearts and wallets from those who prey on our emotions for personal gain.

     

  • Geebo 9:00 am on January 22, 2025 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , romance scam,   

    Romance Scams: Love Turned to Betrayal 

    Romance Scams: Love Turned to Betrayal

    By Greg Collier

    Romance scams, a devastating form of fraud, prey on the vulnerabilities of individuals seeking companionship. For those ensnared, the consequences extend far beyond financial ruin, often leaving emotional scars and, in some cases, life-altering repercussions. Recent developments in a Chicago-based investigation highlight not only the extensive harm caused to victims, but also the complex reality that some individuals complicit in these schemes may themselves be victims of manipulation.

    A network of scammers operating overseas orchestrated an elaborate romance scam that deceived numerous individuals, including one widow who lost nearly $2 million. Among those caught in the fraudulent operation were three Chicago-area residents who unwittingly or knowingly facilitated the scam by laundering funds. Their actions underscore a troubling trend in the use of ‘money mules’ to obscure financial transactions, complicating law enforcement efforts to track illicit activities.

    The victims’ stories paint a haunting picture of exploitation. One woman, a retired health care executive, fell victim to an elaborate deception by someone she believed to be her romantic partner. Over two years, she was manipulated into sending her life savings to an imaginary suitor, who fabricated a tragic persona to elicit her trust. By the end, she was coerced into further criminal activity, setting up fake companies and accounts to move money, a devastating twist that exemplifies how deeply these scams entangle their targets.

    Tragically, this woman’s financial losses were not the sole outcome; her life ended under circumstances tied to the psychological toll of the scam. For her family, the pain of her loss is compounded by the knowledge that her kindness and trust were exploited to such devastating effect.

    Yet, the complexity of romance scams extends beyond the victims they defraud. Those who participate in these operations are not always straightforward criminals. One participant, a former postal worker and military veteran, found herself entangled in the scheme after entering a relationship with one of the scammers. She claims she was manipulated into aiding the operation, believing her partner’s lies about his identity and intentions. While this does not excuse her actions, it highlights how scammers can exploit not only their primary targets but also others around them, weaving a web of deceit that traps even those who may initially have no malicious intent.

    For law enforcement, unraveling these networks is a daunting task. Prosecutors and courts must navigate the fine line between holding individuals accountable and recognizing when their involvement stems from coercion or manipulation. In one recent sentencing, a judge acknowledged the vast disparity in culpability among defendants, balancing the severity of their actions with the circumstances that led to their participation.

    The fallout of romance scams is profound, touching every individual caught in their wake. For victims, the loss of trust can be as devastating as the financial ruin they face. For the families left behind, the pain of witnessing loved ones manipulated into despair is immeasurable. And for those drawn into these schemes as unwitting accomplices, the shame and regret can cast long shadows over their lives.

    These stories are a sobering reminder of the human cost of online fraud. They call for vigilance, not just in identifying and prosecuting those responsible, but in fostering a broader understanding of how these schemes operate and whom they harm. As digital connections grow more pervasive, so too does the need for empathy, awareness, and robust preventative measures to protect individuals from falling prey to exploitation.

     

  • Geebo 9:00 am on December 16, 2024 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , , , , romance scam,   

    Celebrity Impersonation Scams: A Cruel Deceit 

    Celebrity Impersonation Scams: A Cruel Deceit

    By Greg Collier

    Scams are not a reflection of intelligence or sophistication. They are meticulously crafted traps that prey on human vulnerability, trust, and sometimes, loneliness. A recent incident in Marysville, Washington, underscores the devastating impact such schemes can have on unsuspecting individuals and their families. It is a sobering reminder that anyone, regardless of age or life experience, can fall victim to these malicious tactics.

    The story involves a 73-year-old grandmother who became the target of an elaborate scam involving a fake social media profile impersonating a well-known cable news anchor. Drawn into the scheme by a seemingly innocuous online interaction, she was manipulated into sending tens of thousands of dollars under the guise of helping a beloved pet and maintaining a fabricated romantic relationship. The financial loss was substantial, but the emotional toll on her and her family was just as profound.

    This case reveals a critical truth about scams: they thrive on emotional manipulation. By targeting feelings of trust, love, or even fear, scammers bypass rational thought and exploit their victims’ inherent goodness. For older adults, especially those who may experience loneliness or isolation, the risk is even greater. A scammer’s attention can fill a void, making the fabricated relationship feel real and meaningful.

    Loneliness among seniors is a pervasive issue that extends beyond financial fraud. Social isolation can lower defenses, making individuals more susceptible to manipulation. When someone feels unseen or undervalued, a scammer’s feigned affection or friendship can provide a dangerous sense of connection. Unfortunately, this bond is nothing more than a tool for exploitation.

    The incident in Marysville also challenges stereotypes about scam victims. The woman involved was intelligent, with a successful career spanning decades. Yet, even her sharp instincts were dulled by the careful, persistent efforts of the scammer. This reminds us that no one is immune. Scammers adapt their tactics to each victim, creating narratives that resonate deeply and feel believable, no matter how absurd they may seem in hindsight.

    Family members often face the heartbreaking challenge of intervening. Despite two attempts to dissuade the victim in this case, the emotional hold of the scammer proved difficult to break. Families should approach these situations with empathy and understanding, recognizing that victims often feel a mix of shame, embarrassment, and continued loyalty to the scammer. Open, non-judgmental conversations about financial safety and online behavior are essential to preventing such incidents.

    Law enforcement and advocacy organizations are working to combat these schemes, but the responsibility also lies with society to better protect vulnerable populations. Awareness and education are crucial. Friends and family members can play a pivotal role by staying connected, fostering open communication, and regularly discussing the realities of online fraud.

    This is not just about safeguarding money, it’s also about protecting dignity and emotional well-being. Scams don’t just drain bank accounts, they fracture trust and leave lasting scars. By addressing the root causes, like loneliness and isolation, and promoting vigilance, we can help shield our loved ones from falling into these traps.

    To anyone reading this, let the Marysville case be a reminder. Scams are an equal-opportunity threat. They exploit what makes us human, our capacity for trust, love, and empathy. The best defense is staying informed, connected, and supportive of one another. Together, we can close the door on those who prey on vulnerability and ensure that stories like this become less common in the future.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on July 16, 2024 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , , romance scam,   

    The costly safe in a romance scam 

    The costly safe in a romance scam

    By Greg Collier

    A 75-year-old widow from Las Vegas has shared her harrowing experience of losing more than a million dollars to a romance scammer.

    The seasoned performer who spent many years singing background vocals for renowned artists and even toured with a legendary band faced a life-altering turn of events after the loss of her husband in 2020. She wasn’t looking for a relationship but posted on Facebook about her husband’s passing and her new status as a widow.

    Soon after, a man who bore a striking resemblance to her late husband started messaging her on Facebook. He wrote to her every day for about four months, despite her initial reservations about the timing. Eventually, he sent a photograph of himself, and an online relationship began around the summer of 2021.

    The scammer’s requests started innocuously, asking for gift cards to load up his phone with pre-paid calls so they could talk. But soon, the demands escalated. He claimed to be sending her a safe and requested $140,000 to transport it from Australia to her house in Nevada. The requests for money continued to grow over the next two years, with messages professing love and a sense of destiny together.

    Ultimately, she lost $758,000, which included her retirement fund, inheritance from her husband, and her house, which was valued at over $600,000. The financial strain led to her power being turned off twice, and she lost weight due to lack of money for food.

    The man in the photos was actually a spiritual teacher based in Germany, who had no connection to the scam.

    Falling victim to a scam, especially one as emotionally manipulative as a romance scam, can happen to anyone. However, there are several measures that can help a potential victim avoid the scam.

    Be cautious about sharing personal information online, as scammers can use it to manipulate and exploit you. Romance scammers often monitor changes in relationship status, so consider sharing major life updates, like becoming a widow, only with close friends rather than making them public.

    Before engaging deeply in any online relationship, especially if financial transactions are involved, use reverse image search tools to verify the person’s identity. Scammers often use stolen photos.

    Discuss the online relationship with trusted friends or family members. They can offer an outside perspective and may notice red flags that the victim might overlook.

    Also, genuine relationships don’t typically involve early or frequent requests for money. Any request for large sums of money, gift cards, or bank account information should be met with extreme caution.

    And as always, if something feels wrong or too good to be true, trust your instincts. It’s better to be cautious and investigate further than to fall victim to a scam.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on June 25, 2024 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , , romance scam,   

    Recognizing romance scams in a military town 

    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.

     

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