Valentine’s prompts tips from FBI about online romance scams in Stanislaus and beyond
The FBI offered advice on the eve of Valentine’s Day for avoiding online romance scams.
People posing as would-be partners are using dating sites and social media for financial fraud, said a news release Monday from the agency’s Sacramento field office.
“While the criminal’s behavior may seem like normal online dating behavior, especially at first, some indicators offer that your money — not your heart — is the target,” the release said.
The FBI offered these tips:
- Be careful of what you post on these sites. Scammers can use the details to target you.
- Watch for pressure tactics to get you to send or invest money, including for a supposed family emergency.
- Never share credit card numbers, bank account information or Social Security numbers with someone who does not need to know them.
- Beware of online correspondents who try to isolate you from friends and family.
- Watch out for requests to share inappropriate photos or financial information, which could lead to extortion.
- Beware of someone who promises to meet in person, then always has an excuse for not doing so.
The FBI reported that 24,299 victims across the nation reported a total loss of $956 million in romance scams in 2021. They can be reported to the the agency’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at www.ic3.gov or 916-746-7000.
Here’s more on the profile of typical scammers:
- They often ask that the money be relayed via cashier’s check, money order, wire transfer, gift card or an intermediary.
- They do not post photos of themselves, but often use compromised social media accounts as their own. You can research the photo and profile using online searches to see if they have been used elsewhere.
- Scammers can even involve you in a crime by asking you to reship packages or receive and send funds on their behalf.
This story was originally published February 13, 2023 at 6:09 PM.
