Swipe Left: Don’t Fall in Love with a Scammer this Valentine’s Day. Online romance scams are on the rise so stay alert.
February 14, 2023 — Millions of people use online dating apps and dream of meeting that perfect someone. Unfortunately, scammers are also looking to use these same apps to defraud unwary investors. Take steps to help make sure your dream does not turn into a nightmare by falling for a romance scam. This Valentine’s Day, it’s important to keep in mind that romance scams are on the rise. Take steps to help make sure your dream does not become a nightmare by falling for a romance scam.
A romance scam occurs when a person adopts a fake online identity to gain a person’s affection and trust. Scammers use the illusion of romance or intimacy to manipulate or steal from the victim. Scammers will use various tricks to come across as genuine, but one telltale sign that you are communicating with a scammer is if they refuse to meet in person. Often, the scammer will conveniently live outside the United States or works on an overseas project. Eventually, the person will ask for money for an amazing business opportunity or even a medical emergency. They may ask you to send funds through a wire transfer or ask for your bank account details. These con artists are on most dating and social media sites.
“If you give your heart out, don’t lose your wallet,” said Kelly Lammers, Director of Nebraska Department of Banking and Finance. “Protect yourself by paying attention to the warning signs and if it seems too good to be true, then it probably is.”
Go to ndbf.nebraska.gov for more information on what Nebraska resources are available for victims.
If you or someone you know has been scammed, report it to Nebraska Department of Banking and Finance at 402-471-2171 or via our website in the Complaints section.
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