A Sizzling Summer Romance or Scammer’s Trap?

There’s no denying that digital platforms have become a vital part of how we connect, whether it’s keeping in touch with family or meeting new people. However, as our online presence grows, so too do the risks. There’s growing concern, particularly around online romance scams, a form of fraud in which criminals create fake emotional relationships to gain victims’ trust, with the ultimate aim of stealing money or personal information.

Although these scams happen throughout the year, summer can present heightened vulnerability, particularly for older adults, as habits shift. With family members often travelling or preoccupied in this season, seniors may experience longer periods of isolation. The sense of relaxation and openness that comes with summer can also make individuals, both young and old, more susceptible to manipulation by those pretending to offer love and companionship.

Understanding the Threat

Romance scams are typically carried out on social media platforms, messaging apps, or dating websites, and can involve weeks or even months of manipulation.

Scammers often present themselves as caring, charismatic and emotionally available. They may claim to be professionals working overseas, widowed or seeking companionship. Once trust is established, they begin asking for money, often citing emergencies, travel expenses, medical bills or some other convincing reason.

With recent advances in technology, including through artificial intelligence, AI, these scams have become increasingly convincing. Scammers can now imitate real people and this allows them to conduct even fake video calls, making it more difficult to detect the deception.

How to Spot a Romance Scam. Warning Signs:

1. Too Much, Too Soon: Be cautious if someone expresses love or deep emotional attachment early in the conversation. This is a common tactic to quickly build false trust.

• Avoidance of In-Person Meetings: Refusing to meet in person or make a video call after repeated attempts is a major red flag.

• Deepfake Red Flags: With technology allowing scammers to create realistic fake videos or images, be cautious if video calls seem unnatural, such as unnatural facial movements, inconsistent lighting or delays in responses. When in doubt, verify their identity through other trusted means.

• Overseas Storylines: Be suspicious of claims involving overseas travel, sudden medical emergencies or requests for money to help them return home.

• Secrecy Requests: If you’re being asked to keep the relationship private or not tell anyone, it’s likely part of the manipulation.

• Financial Requests: Any request for money, gift cards, phone credit, or sensitive financial information is a strong indicator of a scam.

We all have a role to play. Stay Protected!

Awareness among the general population is key to curbing these scams, so it’s important to:

• Educate yourself and others
• Watch out for warning signs
• Encourage open conversations, especially with seniors who are most at risk
• Never send money to anyone you have not met in person
• Review privacy settings on social media accounts to control who can see your personal information, photos, and activities.
• Report suspicious activity to the relevant authorities immediately

How to report a romance scam:

If you sent money from your bank account to a suspected ‘romance scammer’, contact your bank immediately. Tell them you paid a scammer and ask them to recall the transaction.

If you think it’s a scam, report it to the police and notify the social networking site or app where you met the scammer.

Remember, whether you’re online for socialising, reconnecting or companionship, always approach new relationships with care and caution. Also talk openly with relatives about the risks of online relationships. By staying informed and vigilant, we can protect our communities from falling victim to these harmful crimes.