In today’s fast paced world of instant communication and social media, many adults have turned to online dating sites to find love. Unfortunately, not everyone using dating sites is looking for romance; some are looking for money, your money.
Sweetheart scams have become a very popular way for these swindlers to victimize online daters. Scammers will pose as individuals who are looking for romance, possibly as a beautiful foreign model, a wealthy businessman or even a member of the military. When a connection has been made with an unsuspecting individual, the scammers ask them to wire money in order to help get out of a financial crisis or to partner in a profitable business venture.
Thousands of people have fallen victim to this scam over the past couple of years, but you don’t have to be one of them. Never, under any circumstances, give sensitive personal information to an online love interest, friend or new business partner. Also, if you are dating someone online, and they ask for help with a financial transaction or an emergency, say no.
Trust your gut in situations like these. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is too good to be true. Finally, if you have been scammed through online dating or know of anyone who has, contact you local or state police as soon as possible.