Last Updated on April 18, 2023
How to Avoid Nigerian Romance Scams In 2023
Every day, unsuspecting individuals fall prey to Nigerian romance scams, losing thousands of dollars to fraudulent individuals disguising themselves as lovers. Many know little about these scams and become easily susceptible to these criminals. Nigerian scammers actively exploit people’s emotional vulnerabilities to extract funds from them. Here, we will explore how Nigerian romance scams work and how to avoid them.
How Nigerian Romance Scams Work?
Nigerian romance scams involve scammers who create fake profiles on social media or dating apps portraying themselves as attractive individuals seeking love. They will then initiate a conversation with their targets and gain their confidence over time. The scammers will then ask the victim for money under the pretense of an emergency, such as needing to pay medical bills, getting a plane ticket to visit them, or for many other reasons.
These scams are successful because they play on the victims’ emotions. Scammers are skilled manipulators and can create a compelling story. They target a specific need in their victims, such as companionship or love. They will take their time building a relationship with their targets, asking questions that will help them identify the target’s vulnerabilities. Once the connection is made, the scammers will ask for money.
How To Avoid Nigerian Romance Scams in 2023?
Do your research: With the internet at our fingertips, it is easy to find helpful information about a person, including background checks and social media profiles. Before getting too deep into any relationship, investing time in getting to know the person you are talking to is essential. Be wary of those who refuse to share personal information or are vague about their past.
Beware of overly affectionate strangers: It can be flattering when someone showers you with compliments and affection, especially when it’s coming from a stranger. However, alarm bells should ring when someone expresses their undying love for you too quickly or without meeting you. If they refuse to video chat, it is a sign they may be hiding something.
Don’t send money: Once a scammer has built a connection with you, they will eventually ask for money. They will use elaborate lies and excuses to justify their inability to access their money and need your help. To avoid falling into their trap, never send personal information or money to strangers, especially those you have not met in person.
Follow your instincts: When it comes to matters of the heart, your instincts are your best defense. Trust your gut if you start feeling uncomfortable or suspicious about someone. Listen to your inner critic when it tells you to be cautious and not brush off red flags quickly.
Stay informed: Learn to recognize red flags in Nigerian romance scams so you don’t make the same mistakes twice. Scammers use fake profile pictures, names, and locations to lure victims. They also create compelling stories that play on emotions and vulnerabilities. Keep informed by researching common tactics scammers use, and consult reliable sources before sharing personal information.
Steps to Protect Yourself
Once you have become a victim of this type of scam, you should take critical steps to protect yourself from further danger.
1. Avoid sending your scammer more money, even if they start to threaten you.
2. Document as much of the scam as possible. Ensure you take screenshots of names, numbers, accounts, etc.
3. Report the scammer on the platforms where you first met.
4. Upgrade your passwords and implement strong privacy settings on your social media platforms.
5. Report the scam to the police, the Internet Crime Complaint Center, and cyber investigators.
6. Contact your credit card companies and money transfer apps to dispute charges and claim them as fraud to try and get your money back.
Summary
Nigerian romance scams can have dire consequences for their targets, emotionally and financially. So, taking the necessary steps to protect yourself from fraudulent activities is critical. Remember, scammers will always try to create a need and vulnerable situation to deceive. Do not fall for such tactics; always be suspicious and report any suspicion of fraud to the authorities. Stay safe, and please share this piece with your friends and family to protect them from Nigerian romance scams.
