Online Dating Scams
Has an online love interest asked you for money? That's a scam.
Scammers know millions of people use online dating sites. They are there, too, hiding behind fake profiles.
Signs of a Scam
- Professes love quickly.
- Claims to be from the U.S., but is overseas for business or military service.
- Asks for money, and lures you off the dating site.
- Claims to need money for emergencies, hospital bills, or travel.
- Plans to visit, but can't because of an emergency.
Costliest Scam Reported to the FTC in 2019
- $201 million lost in 2019, compared to $33 million in 2015
- Reported money losses increased 6 times since 2015
What to do
- Slow down and talk to someone you trust. Don't let a scammer rush you.
- Never wire money from your bank account, buy gift cards, or wire money to an online love interest. You won't get it back.
- Contact your bank right away if you think you've sent money to a scammer.
- Report your experience to the online dating site, Federal Trade Commission: ftc.gov/complaint, and Federal Bureau of Investigation: ic3.gov
Source: ABA
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