In this day and age, people are being swindled by romance scammers. Studies reveal that people who idealise their partners are more vulnerable to this fraud. Romance novels, K-Drama, and romantic movies are not helping matters as they give a false representation of what love is. These days, loneliness can make people go to any length to keep their lovers. Some internet users who use dating websites to meet people prefer text and video calls to physical meetings. Loneliness can make them fall in love with someone merely by talking to them constantly on the phone. Here is how romance scammers operate:
1. Trust is the foundation
Most romance scammers operate online. The scammer builds a close relationship with their victim based on trust and love.
2. They feed you with what you love
The romance scammer understands you seek attention and admiration so they feed you on it. They would act like the ideal partner, say all the right things, go out on dates with you, and maybe even buy you expensive gifts. They are doing so to win your love.
3. They target you on dating sites
Since it is easier to lie and build a false persona online, romance scammers target dating sites. You need to stay woke as they may deceive you with false images and videos.
4. They start with simple favours
Once trust has been established and a close relationship is built, the romance scammer starts requesting for small to big favours from the victim. For example providing them with a phone to enhance their communication or taking actions that allow both of them to remain together, such as covering the costs of their airline tickets.
5. They tell touching stories
The romance scammer tells a touching story and asks you to prove your love. Sometimes, they will go as far as introducing a third party to defraud you. The romance scammer might provide you with the debtor’s contact number (a debt incurred through no fault of their own but while doing business), and the debtor could send intimidating messages that would raise concerns about your partner’s welfare that you will be compelled to send money.
How do you avoid romance scammers?
- Conduct a Google Images search to ascertain whether they are using stolen images to falsify their persona.
- Go on Google to conduct as much social media due diligence and background checks as possible. Go through their social media. It is a red flag if they have no social media presence.
- Finally, never send money to someone you just met or are dating, no matter the emergency, or promise of repayment.