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  Geebo 8:00 am on April 24, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: recovery scam ( 5 ), recovery service ( 7 ), romance scam, Scams ( 1,224 )   

  Romance scam victim falls victim to second scam 

  

  By Greg Collier

  The quest for love has transcended physical boundaries, with countless individuals turning to the internet in hopes of finding their soulmate. However, this modern-day fairytale is not without its dark side.

  A widow from Long Island, who sought companionship during the isolating times of the pandemic, found herself ensnared in a romance scam that cost her a staggering $468,000.

  The scam began with a seemingly charming engineer from the Philippines, who, over six months, gained the widow’s trust and affection. But as their relationship progressed, so did his requests for money, under the guise of protecting them both from harm. It was only after nearly half a million dollars had vanished that the widow realized the bitter truth of the deception.

  However, the ordeal didn’t end there. In a desperate attempt to recover her losses, the widow turned to online support groups, only to fall victim to another layer of fraudsters posing as FBI agents promising to retrieve her funds. These individuals purported to be agents affiliated with the Internet Crime Complaint Center, an entity known for investigating online scams. Despite their assurances of no upfront fees for their assistance, the victim soon found herself sending money to these deceitful impostors posing as investigators.

  Regrettably, this scenario is all too familiar. Scammers actively target individuals who share their scam experiences on social media platforms. They often exploit these posts by leaving comments suggesting that they successfully retrieved their lost funds with the help of a supposed recovery service. However, these purported recovery services are nothing more than additional scams in disguise. Similar to other scam tactics, they manipulate victims by continuously demanding money under the guise of securing the promised recovery. Despite assurances of results, they never deliver on their promises, leaving victims further deceived and financially exploited.

  Scam recovery services should be approached with extreme caution, as they are typically illegitimate operations. The reality is that the only credible entity with a chance of potentially recovering funds for scam victims is law enforcement. However, even this prospect is often slim and contingent upon various factors. It’s crucial to recognize that legitimate law enforcement agencies, such as the FBI, will never initiate contact with a scam victim via social media without prior solicitation. Furthermore, they will never request money from a victim. Awareness of these red flags can help individuals avoid falling deeper into the clutches of scammers posing as saviors.

  As a general rule, never send money to someone you’ve met online, especially if they pressure you or concoct elaborate tales to justify their request. If you suspect you’ve been targeted by a scammer, reach out to trusted friends, family members, or authorities for guidance and assistance.

   

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  Geebo 8:00 am on April 19, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: military ( 11 ), military romance scam ( 9 ), romance scam, Scams ( 1,224 )   

  Military man charged in romance scam 

  

  By Greg Collier

  Romance scammers frequently adopt the identities of military personnel, ranging from newly enlisted recruits to high-ranking officers. This impersonation offers scammers a convenient excuse for avoiding face-to-face meetings with their victims, claiming they are stationed abroad and unable to return to the US for extended periods. But what unfolds when the perpetrator behind the deception is actually a member of the military themselves?

  The recent case of a soldier, stationed at Fort Liberty, underscores the pervasive threat of romance scams and the devastating impact they can have on victims. The story unfolds with the 33-year-old active-duty service member, pleading guilty to three counts of money laundering in September after being accused of orchestrating a sophisticated romance scam operation. Operating under various aliases and personas, the soldier allegedly preyed upon the trust of unsuspecting individuals by impersonating love interests, diplomats, customs personnel, and fellow military members.

  Romance scams like this often involve building a false sense of intimacy and trust with their victims before exploiting them financially. In this case, the soldier is accused of manipulating victims into divulging personal information and gaining access to their inheritance and property. The funds obtained were then laundered through personal bank accounts across state lines and through contacts overseas, leaving a trail of financial devastation in his wake.

  What makes this case particularly egregious is the fact that the soldier carried out these fraudulent activities while serving as an active-duty soldier at Fort Liberty, formerly known as Fort Bragg. This betrayal of trust not only tarnishes the reputation of the military but also highlights the vulnerability of individuals, including seniors and military veterans, to such nefarious schemes.

  A US Attorney even commented that the fact that an Army service member was involved in romance scams while serving as a soldier is appalling.

  If someone claiming to be a service member approaches you romantically, there are several steps you can take to protect yourself from a potential romance scam. Request their official military email address, and do a reverse image search of any photos they use in their communications.

  Watch out for inconsistencies in their story, such as frequent excuses for not being able to meet in person or reluctance to provide specific details about their military service. Be cautious if they quickly profess love or ask for money or personal information.

  Engage in conversation about their military experience, unit, or deployment. Legitimate service members are often proud to discuss their service and can provide details about their duties, base, or deployment history.

  If something feels off or too good to be true, it’s important to listen to your intuition. Take a step back and reassess the situation before proceeding further.

  If you suspect that you’re being targeted by a romance scammer impersonating a service member, report the individual to the relevant authorities. This may include contacting the military branch they claim to belong to or reporting the incident to online platforms where you encountered them.

  By asking questions, and verifying information, you can reduce the risk of falling victim to a romance scam perpetrated by someone claiming to be a service member. It’s essential to prioritize your safety and well-being in any online interaction.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on April 9, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: cryptocurrency ( 43 ), pig butchering scam ( 11 ), romance scam, Scams ( 1,224 )   

  Unveiling the shadowy depths of the “Pig Butchering” scam 

  

  By Greg Collier

  In the interconnected landscape of the internet, where opportunities abound, so too do the darker facets of human nature manifest. One such shadowy phenomenon, known as “pig butchering,” has recently come under scrutiny as the Brooklyn district attorney’s office launched a concerted effort to dismantle its operations. This scheme, characterized by its deceptive tactics and devastating financial impact, highlights the urgent need for vigilance and collective action against online fraud.

  At its core, pig butchering is a scheme built on deception and manipulation. Scammers initiate online conversations with unsuspecting individuals, gradually gaining their trust before enticing them into fraudulent cryptocurrency investments. The promise of substantial returns serves as bait, luring victims into a web of deceit from which escape proves difficult.

  In pig butchering schemes, victims are derogatorily labeled as ‘pigs’ by the scammers. This dehumanizing term reflects the scammers’ intent to manipulate victims through intricate narratives, designed to emotionally ‘fatten up’ their targets, convincing them of a deep, often romantic connection.

  The scale of this scam is staggering, with victims scattered across multiple states, their collective losses totaling millions of dollars. What sets pig butchering apart is its insidious reliance on human trafficking victims to facilitate the scams, further underscoring the depths of exploitation involved.

  In the New York borough of Brooklyn, victims have been defrauded out of $5 million. Their dreams of financial prosperity shattered by the ruthless machinations of cybercriminals. The Brooklyn district attorney’s office has taken decisive action in response, seizing nearly two dozen web domains associated with the scheme and shutting down its online infrastructure. This aggressive approach aims to disrupt the operations of the perpetrators and stem the flow of illicit gains.

  The Brooklyn District Attorney’s Office, in a statement echoing the sentiments of many, emphasizes the critical importance of awareness and education in combating such schemes. By empowering the public with knowledge, individuals can better safeguard themselves against falling victim to fraudulent schemes that promise the impossible.

  The stories of victims paint a harrowing picture of the devastation wrought by pig butchering scams. Take, for instance, the case of a 51-year-old woman who lost $23,000 after being ensnared in online chat groups discussing crypto investments. Despite believing her investment had grown substantially, she found herself blocked from the chat group when attempting to withdraw her funds, left with nothing but shattered hopes and financial ruin.

  The investigation into pig butchering has unearthed victims not only in Brooklyn but also across state lines, with communities such as the Chinese and Russian populations particularly targeted. This widespread reach underscores the urgent need for collaborative efforts to combat online fraud and protect vulnerable individuals from exploitation.

  The cryptocurrency market’s inherent volatility already poses significant risks without the added threat of scammers. Before considering any investment in cryptocurrency, ensure you’ve thoroughly researched and understood the subject matter. Be cautious if someone you haven’t met in person advises you to invest in cryptocurrency, as there’s a high probability they’re not genuine.

   
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  Geebo 9:00 am on February 12, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: covid-19 ( 48 ), military romance scam ( 9 ), romance scam, Scams ( 1,224 )   

  Victim was under the spell of romance scammers for years 

  

  By Greg Collier

  With Valentine’s Day being this week, several media outlets are running stories warning their audiences about romance scams. This is for good reason, as Valentine’s Day is when many people feel their loneliest, and are most vulnerable to these scams. While you might be familiar with the red flags indicating a romance scam, it’s essential to know what steps to take if a loved one, be it a friend or family member, becomes ensnared in one.

  Typically, a romance scam is a type of fraud where a scammer creates a fake online persona to establish a romantic relationship with someone, usually through dating websites or social media platforms. Once trust is gained, the scammer often starts asking for money, claiming to be in a financial crisis or needing funds for various reasons. They may fabricate elaborate stories to manipulate their victims into sending them money or personal information. Ultimately, the scammer disappears once they’ve obtained what they wanted, leaving the victim emotionally and financially devastated.

  The COVID-19 lockdowns were a heyday for romance scams, with so many people being unable to physically visit their friends and family. This was emotionally damaging to many, but none more so than the elderly. Many family members wouldn’t visit their older relatives due to fear of accidentally infecting them with the virus. With many elderly people being physically isolated from their families, this left many seniors emotionally vulnerable and more susceptible to falling victim to scams.

  The circumstances surrounding the COVID-19 lockdowns contributed to the unfortunate case of a 78-year-old Ohio woman falling prey to multiple romance scams. Engaging in online word games, she likely encountered these scammers. Shockingly, one of them impersonated a retired four-star Army General, further highlighting the deceptive tactics used to exploit vulnerable individuals.

  Despite her daughter’s concerns and attempts to intervene, the victim remained steadfast in her belief of an ongoing romantic relationship, refusing to acknowledge the deception. Even after the daughter halted payments on checks to unknown individuals from their joint account, the victim insisted on releasing the funds when she visited the bank. Tragically, this persistence led to devastating financial losses, including the forfeiture of a $150,000 inheritance and the necessity of selling her house to prevent foreclosure.

  In such a situation, it’s crucial for the family member to approach with empathy and understanding while also taking decisive action to protect their loved one. Here are some steps they could take.

  Have an open and non-judgmental conversation with the victim. Express concern for their well-being and explain why their actions are worrying. Provide information about romance scams, including common tactics used by scammers and the warning signs to look out for. Help them understand that they may be manipulated. You may also want to seek assistance from professionals such as financial advisors, therapists, or social workers who have experience dealing with elder financial exploitation and psychological vulnerabilities.

  You may also consider taking steps to safeguard the victim’s finances, such as monitoring accounts, freezing assets, or setting up safeguards to prevent further monetary losses. Or, if necessary, consider legal options such as obtaining power of attorney or guardianship to protect the victim’s interests and make decisions on their behalf.

  It’s important to approach the situation with patience and persistence, understanding that breaking the hold of a scam can be challenging and may require ongoing support and intervention.

   
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  Geebo 9:00 am on February 6, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: cryptocurrency ( 43 ), pig butchering scam ( 11 ), romance scam, Scams ( 1,224 )   

  Inside the world of romance and crypto scams 

  

  By Greg Collier

  In the digital age, where connections are made with a swipe or a click, the promise of love and wealth can often be just a facade. Behind the screen lurks a growing threat – the pig butchering scam. One man’s story is a chilling reminder of how easily trust can be exploited, leaving lives shattered and savings decimated.

  The man’s journey began innocently enough through a virtual encounter with a woman on social media. What started as casual chatting soon spiraled into a whirlwind of emotions, with promises of romance and financial prosperity. The woman’s tale of a vast fortune held captive by familial ties tugged at the man’s heartstrings. Little did he know, he was being reeled into a meticulously crafted scheme.

  As the relationship deepened, so did the demands. Driven by love and the allure of significant returns, the man emptied his savings, liquidated assets, and even considered taking out loans to fulfill the woman’s requests. The facade began to crack when an unexpected call from the FBI shattered the illusion. The man was just one victim among thousands, ensnared by the promise of love and wealth, only to find himself on the brink of financial ruin.

  The pig butchering scam, aptly named for its ruthless exploitation of victims, is a sophisticated operation orchestrated by organized criminal groups primarily based in Southeast Asia. These criminals meticulously research their targets, exploiting vulnerabilities and manipulating emotions to gain trust. Victims, from all walks of life, find themselves entrapped in a web of deceit, their dreams turned into nightmares at the hands of heartless fraudsters.

  The scale of this deception is staggering, with losses surpassing billions of dollars and leaving behind a trail of shattered lives. Victims are left grappling with the harsh reality of their circumstances, their hopes dashed, and their futures uncertain. The toll extends beyond financial hardship, with emotional distress and physical ailments plaguing those who fall prey to these schemes.

  However, amidst the darkness, there is a glimmer of hope. Law enforcement agencies, armed with advanced cyber techniques, are waging a battle against these fraudulent operations. Through proactive intervention and collaboration with financial institutions, some victims have been spared from further devastation, and stolen funds have been recovered.

  This cautionary tale serves as a stark reminder of the dangers lurking in the digital realm. The words of warning echo loud and clear – if it seems too good to be true, it probably is. Behind the veil of promises lies a harsh reality, one where trust is exploited, and lives are shattered. As we navigate the virtual landscape, let us remain vigilant and wary of the wolves in sheep’s clothing, lest we too fall victim to the costly deception of romance and crypto scams.

   
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  Geebo 9:06 am on January 25, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: CIA ( 2 ), police impersonation scam ( 49 ), romance scam, Scams ( 1,224 )   

  The romance scammer who posed as a CIA agent 

  

  By Greg Collier

  We’ve consistently advised our readers that once you’ve been targeted by a scammer, the likelihood of further exploitation increases significantly. Take, for instance, falling victim to a sweepstakes scam – the scammer often concocts additional reasons for the victim to continue paying. Furthermore, scammers trade the information of their victims among themselves, leading to potential multiple scams on the same individual. In some instances, the same scammer may return with an entirely new scheme, using any means necessary to manipulate the victim’s trust, and they are doggedly persistent.

  A few years ago, a Massachusetts woman found herself ensnared in the web of a romance scam. Believing she was in a genuine relationship with a man purportedly working on an overseas oil pipeline, she unwittingly sent a staggering $150,000 over time to the scammer. Although she eventually became aware of the deception, the ordeal did not conclude there.

  After severing communication with the romance scammer, the victim found herself confronted with a new and alarming tactic. Months later, she began receiving emails allegedly originating from the CIA. These messages took an ominous turn, threatening her with arrest and asserting that the individual she had sent money to in the romance scam was now being labeled as a terrorist. The victim was explicitly warned against discussing the matter with anyone, including family, friends, or attorneys, under the ominous threat of immediate arrest.

  When pressed to identify himself, the scammer resorted to sending the victim a picture of a novelty CIA badge and ID, easily obtainable online. The deceptive tactics persisted until the victim asserted her boundaries, insisting that any meeting with the purported agent would only take place at her local police station. It was only at this point that the relentless harassment from the scammer finally ceased.

  Indeed, falling victim to a scam and suffering significant financial losses is distressing on its own. However, the added layer of enduring verbal abuse and facing threats of arrest exacerbates the trauma.

  In addition to the initial romance scam, the scammer tried to ensnare the victim in another layer of deception known as the police impersonation scam. Scammers frequently adopt the guise of law enforcement officers or agents, utilizing intimidation tactics to manipulate victims into complying with their demands. A common element of this scheme involves warning victims that they are prohibited from discussing the matter with anyone, threatening arrest for non-compliance. The underlying objective is to isolate the victim, preventing them from seeking assistance or confiding in others who might recognize the scam. This calculated tactic aims to maintain control and prolong the deception without external interference.

  In safeguarding against the unsettling threat of police impersonation scams, vigilance and skepticism are paramount. Authentic law enforcement agencies do not make unsolicited calls demanding immediate action or payments. Verify the legitimacy of any communication by independently contacting the supposed agency using official contact information. Never share personal or financial information over the phone unless certain of the caller’s authenticity. If faced with coercive demands and threats of arrest, remain calm and seek advice from trusted individuals or law enforcement directly. By staying informed, questioning unexpected communications, and maintaining open lines of communication with trusted contacts, individuals can fortify themselves against the manipulative tactics employed by police impersonators and other scammers.

   
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  Geebo 9:00 am on January 10, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: celebrity scam ( 2 ), impersonation scam ( 113 ), romance scam, Scams ( 1,224 )   

  Celebrity romance scam victim accused of poisoning husband at direction of scammer 

  

  By Greg Collier

  One version of the romance scam we don’t talk enough about is when the scammers pose as a celebrity.

  Scammers create a fake profile on social media or dating websites, using the name, photos, and other information of a popular celebrity. They may also use stolen images from the internet to make the profile appear more convincing.

  The scammer initiates contact with potential victims, often reaching out to them via direct messages, comments, or friend requests. They may use flattering language and compliments to make the target feel special.

  The scammer invests time in building a virtual relationship with the victim. They may engage in conversations, share personal stories, and express romantic interest to create a sense of emotional connection.

  At some point, the scammer introduces a fabricated crisis or urgent situation that requires financial assistance. This could be a medical emergency, legal trouble, or any other scenario designed to evoke sympathy and a desire to help.

  However, there’s at least one scammer out there who has no compunction about asking his victims to kill.

  This scammer posed as a 57-year-old soap opera star, and targeted a 64-year-old married woman. There aren’t many details on how the scam was perpetrated in this instance, but what is known is the victim did give $8000 to the scammer. Apparently, that was not enough money for the scammer.

  Last month, the woman’s 73-year-old husband was rushed to the hospital with an unknown ailment. While at the hospital, the couple’s daughter noticed strange messages on her mother’s phone that appeared to come from the soap opera actor.

  The message from the scammer that allegedly started this whole incident read, “You have to get rid of your husband honey. I need you so much.” The woman replied that she would be making soup for her husband that would be a special recipe. After her husband was taken to the ER, she sent another message stating that her husband wasn’t feeling well, and maybe she could collect a life insurance payout. The scammer asked her when would that be.

  If it wasn’t for their daughter, the husband may have been murdered at the behest of a scammer. Unfortunately, there is no happy ending in this story, since the wife has been charged with attempted murder.

  While often romance scam stories are dismissed as gossip and sensationalism, they can have grave repercussions. Romance scams affect both men and women, and have victimized people from every walk of life. It can affect people who are living paycheck to paycheck, and all the way up the corporate chain to CEOs. In too many instances, victims have lost their lives or their freedom after falling victim to such scams.

  To avoid falling victim to celebrity impersonation romance scams, it’s crucial to exercise caution when interacting with individuals online, especially those claiming to be famous personalities. Be skeptical of requests for money from people you’ve never met in person, and verify the legitimacy of online connections before sharing personal information or financial details. If in doubt, consider reporting suspicious activity to the platform administrators.

   
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  Geebo 9:00 am on December 27, 2023 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: embezzlement, romance scam, Scams ( 1,224 )   

  Romance scam victim accused of embezzling $3.75M 

  

  By Greg Collier

  While we often believe ourselves to be savvy navigators in the online world, the truth is that anyone can become entangled in the intricate web of a romance scam. The illusion of connection, coupled with the emotional vulnerability inherent in seeking love, renders even the most cautious individuals susceptible to deception. In this age of interconnectedness, the line between genuine affection and calculated deceit has blurred, leading unsuspecting hearts down a perilous path. Individuals from all walks of life can unwittingly fall victim to the allure of a virtual romance, sometimes at the cost of their own well-being.

  For example, a woman from Minnesota was recently charged with felony theft for allegedly stealing millions from her employer, so she could send the money to a scammer she thought was her romantic partner. The scammer told her he was in Dubai and was owed $7 million for work he did there. Romance scammers often pose as businessmen who work overseas so they can have a convenient reason for not meeting their supposed romantic partners in person. The scammer claimed he needed to borrow money in order to access the money he said he was owed.

  From here, the woman is suspected of embezzling money from the company she worked for. Her duties within the company were working remotely handling the company’s payroll, accounts payable, and general bookkeeping, meaning she had access to the company’s money.

  Eventually, the company noticed irregularities in their books and hired an outside financial investigator. The woman was fired for allegedly embezzling $3.75 million from the company. When she was interviewed by state investigators, she allegedly told them she had permission to borrow the money from the company.

  It has become increasingly evident that vulnerability knows no boundaries. Regardless of educational background or socioeconomic status, the human desire for connection and companionship remains a universal force. Romance scams, with their sophisticated tactics and emotional manipulation, can ensnare individuals across the spectrum of society. The misconception that only the gullible or uninformed are susceptible is debunked as we recognize that these scams prey on fundamental human emotions, transcending educational achievements or financial standing.

  The red flags of a romance scam should never be ignored. If the person you’re communicating with constantly gives excuses for not meeting face to face, they’re hiding something, which typically is the fact they’re not who they say they are. Requests for money before ever meeting face to face are also a dead giveaway of a romance scam. Keep in mind that scammers will foster relationships with their victims for months while showering them with affection before asking for money. If you feel like you may be talking to a scammer, don’t be afraid to reach out to someone close to you to get their opinion.

   
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  Geebo 9:00 am on November 30, 2023 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: FBI ( 18 ), police impersonation scam ( 49 ), romance scam, Scams ( 1,224 )   

  Celebrity romance scam had deadly consequences 

  

  By Greg Collier

  A pair of alleged romance scammers from New Jersey have been arrested after investigators discovered their involvement in scamming an elderly Tennessee man. The pair convinced the man that he was having an online relationship with a well-known female celebrity. Then the scammers convinced the man that they were with the FBI, and the celebrity was suing the man for harassment. That’s when the scammers started demanding money from their victim.

  The man was told he would need to pay fines to resolve the lawsuit. He sent the scammers a $5500 check. However, the check was made out to the FBI, meaning the scammers couldn’t cash the check. Apparently, the scammers were incensed by this because they told the man he would now have to pay $40,000 for failing to follow instructions. Before it was all over, the man paid close to $90,000 to the scammers, with him even taking out a loan on his car.

  It’s unknown if the man realized he was being scammed as he took his own life last month. After his passing, the man’s family found emails related to the scam and contacted police.

  We hope that our readers’ first thoughts when seeing this story aren’t “I would have never fallen for this scam.” If they were, we’d like to remind you that a man has been lost from his family due to the actions of greedy and reckless scammers. While you may not have fallen victim to this scam, there’s probably someone in your family who would. Now, imagine the heartbreak of losing them to a pointless scam like this.

  While most romance scams don’t veer off into police impersonation territory, always be wary of online relationships where your supposed partner can’t meet you in person. Also, please keep in mind that no law enforcement agency will ever ask you to make payments over the phone or through email.

  If you know someone who you suspect may be the target of a romance scam, please try to talk to them about such scams before they become victims.

  (If you or someone you know is contemplating the unthinkable, please know that there is no shame in reaching out for help. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is accessible 24 hours a day at 1-800-273-8255, and you can also visit their website for support. You can also reach the lifeline by dialing 988. This new three-digit number is designed to provide easier access to mental health support services.)

   
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  Geebo 9:00 am on November 21, 2023 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: IRS ( 22 ), romance scam, Scams ( 1,224 )   

  IRS warns of romance scams 

  

  By Greg Collier

  When many people think of the Internal Revenue Service, they only think of having to pay their income tax to the government. However, the IRS also has a Criminal Investigation Office. These are the federal agents tasked with going after scammers and scam rings. Recently, the IRS sounded the alarm on romance scams after a Federal Trade Commission report said that over 70,000 people lost a combined total of $1.3 billion in 2022. And those are only the ones the government knows about. Many romance scam victims never come forward out of embarrassment.

  If you’re unfamiliar with romance scams, they mostly target women, but it’s not unheard of for men to be victims as well. Romance scammers also tend to target the elderly as well, but anyone of any age can be a victim.

  These scammers largely find their victims on social media, dating platforms, and sometimes online games. Romance scammers are very patient and will trick their victims into believing that they’re in a real relationship. More often than not, the scammers will pose as someone living or working overseas. The victims will experience a process known as ‘love bombing’ where the scammer will dote on their victims with little romantic touches.

  These relationships will be cultivated by the scammers for months before they finally approach their victims for money. The scammer will usually have a story about how some kind of emergency has come up, and since they’re overseas, they can’t access their own money. Or they’ll claim they need the money as part of an investment in their business. All the while, the scammers will promise their victims they’ll repay the money when they finally meet in person.

  Except, romance scammers will never meet their victims in person. Often these scammers use someone else’s identity that they found online. They’ll use pictures of other people they stole from social media, and even use that person’s name in their scam. But, they’ll continue to ask for money until the victim is either broke or finally catches on to the scam.

  Here are some recommendations from the IRS to help you steer clear of falling prey to romance scams. Refrain from sending money to individuals you’ve only interacted with online or via phone. Exercise caution when sharing information publicly on the internet. Approach new relationships with a deliberate pace and ask probing questions. Stay vigilant if someone appears too flawless or hastily urges you to transition from a dating service or social media platform to alternative means of communication. Be wary of individuals attempting to isolate you from your circle of friends and family. Avoid sharing inappropriate images or financial details that could potentially be exploited for extortion. And lastly, exercise suspicion if promises of an in-person meeting are made but never materialize.