Romance Scam: Is It a Scam?

High Prevalence Type: Romance Impersonates: Romantic interests
Yes, this is a scam. Do not click any links or provide personal information.

Romance scams caused over $1.3 billion in losses in 2022 alone. Scammers create fake profiles on dating apps or social media, build emotional relationships, then manipulate victims into sending money.

How This Scam Works

Romance scams follow a predictable pattern:

1. **Initial contact** - They message you on a dating app, social media, or through email.

2. **Love bombing** - They shower you with attention, compliments, and declarations of love.

3. **Building trust** - They communicate constantly for weeks or months, sharing a fake life story.

4. **The excuse** - They claim to be overseas (military, oil rig, doctor abroad) explaining why they can't meet.

5. **The ask** - Eventually there's an emergency requiring money (medical bills, travel costs, business problem).

6. **Escalation** - If you send money, they'll continue asking for more with new emergencies.

7. **They never meet** - There's always an excuse why they can't video chat or meet in person.

Red Flags to Watch For

Example Scam Messages

I know we just met but I've never felt this connection with anyone. You're my soulmate. I'm so embarrassed to ask but I'm stuck overseas and my wallet was stolen. Could you wire me $500 for a plane ticket? I'll pay you back as soon as I'm home. My mom needs surgery and I can't access my bank account from here. Can you help? It's only temporary. I want to come see you but I need to pay customs fees to leave the country with my work equipment. Can you help me?

What to Do If You Received This

  1. Never send money to someone you haven't met in person
  2. Reverse image search their photos
  3. Insist on video chat - real people will video chat
  4. Ask questions - inconsistencies reveal lies
  5. Talk to friends and family about the relationship
  6. Trust your instincts - if it seems too good to be true, it is

What to Do If You Fell For It

  1. Stop all contact with the scammer
  2. Don't send more money even if threatened
  3. Contact your bank about possible recovery
  4. Report to the dating site
  5. Report to the FTC and FBI IC3
  6. Seek support - this is emotionally traumatic
  7. Don't blame yourself - these are professional manipulators

How to Report This Scam

Last updated: January 13, 2026