Romance Scams during Covid-19: Spot & Protect
September 18, 2024
Romance scams during Covid-19 have surged, preying on the vulnerable and isolated. Our team has found that these scammers exploit the emotional and financial distress caused by the pandemic to deceive unsuspecting victims.
The global pandemic has not only affected our health and economy but also our personal lives, especially in the realm of online dating. With social distancing measures in place, many turned to online platforms to find companionship, making it a fertile ground for romance scammers. These fraudsters craft elaborate stories to gain trust and manipulate emotions, ultimately leading to financial exploitation.
We performed extensive tests and found that romance scammers are becoming increasingly sophisticated. They often pose as military personnel, offshore workers, or international businesspeople to create a plausible reason for not meeting in person. Their tactics include professing love quickly, creating fake emergencies, and requesting money for various fabricated reasons.
Our team has found that the impact of these scams is devastating, both emotionally and financially. Victims often feel ashamed and isolated, making it difficult for them to seek help. However, by understanding the common tactics used by these scammers, we can better protect ourselves and our loved ones. This guide aims to educate you on how to spot and protect yourself from romance scams during Covid-19.
Always verify the identity of your online love interest through video calls and reverse image searches before getting emotionally or financially involved.