Common Romance Scams We Investigate
Romance scams often begin with a fake relationship built on dating apps, social media, or messaging platforms. Once trust is established, scammers introduce financial requests, investment opportunities, or urgent emergencies. Understanding the type of scam helps investigators assess the situation and begin the romance scam recovery process.
Crypto Romance Investment Scams
In this type of scam, the fraudster convinces the victim to invest in a cryptocurrency trading platform or digital investment opportunity. The platform often appears legitimate and may even display fake profits. When the victim tries to withdraw funds, additional fees or taxes are demanded. In reality, the entire investment platform is controlled by scammers.
Military Romance Scams
Scammers frequently impersonate military personnel stationed overseas. They build emotional connections with victims and later claim they need financial assistance for travel, medical emergencies, or personal expenses. The scammer may promise to visit once the situation is resolved, but the requests for money continue.
Emergency or Medical Assistance Scams
In these scams, the fraudster claims to be facing a sudden emergency such as a medical issue, legal problem, or financial crisis. Victims are pressured to send money quickly to help their partner resolve the situation. Once the payment is made, the scammer often disappears or creates new emergencies to request additional funds.
Travel and Visa Scams
A scammer may promise to travel and meet the victim in person. Shortly before the planned visit, they claim they need help paying for travel expenses, visa fees, or customs charges. After the victim sends the money, the meeting never happens, and the scammer invents further complications to request more payments.
Gift Card and Payment App Scams
Some romance scammers request payments through gift cards, prepaid vouchers, or instant payment apps. Victims are instructed to send card codes or transfer funds immediately, making the transactions difficult to reverse. These payment methods are often used because they provide scammers with fast and anonymous access to the funds.
