Last Updated on April 18, 2023
How to Avoid Romance Scams In 2023
People come online in hopes of finding love, but rather than that, many are dealt with a false romance. Romance scams are becoming so common that the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) reports that $1.3 billion was lost from victims both in 2021 and 2022, making it one of the most profitable scams for cybercriminals. Keep reading to learn how to avoid romance scams in 2023 and more.
5 Signs of Romance Scams
To help you stay safe, here are five signs of a potential romance scam.
1. Asking for Money: One of the most evident signs of a romance scam is when the person you’re talking to starts asking for money. They may create a sob story about needing money for an emergency or a medical procedure. Still, if the person is genuinely interested in a relationship, they shouldn’t be asking for money from you.
2. Asking for Personal Information: Another red flag is when someone asks for personal information. They may ask for your address, bank account information, Social Security number, or anything else that could be used to steal your identity.
3. Moving Too Quickly: Be wary if the person you’re talking to moves too quickly. A scammer may try to push you into starting a relationship before you’re ready to get what they want quickly.
4. Refusing to Speak on the Phone: A scammer may not want to talk on the phone or video chat because they don’t want you to hear their voice or see their face. They may also make excuses for their inability to talk, such as a poor internet connection or a broken phone.
5. Too Good to be True: If the person seems too good to be true, they probably are. A scammer may try to make themselves seem perfect by telling you all the right things, but if you look a little closer, you may find inconsistencies in their story.
How To Avoid Romance Scams?
As we move into 2023, it’s clear that the risk of falling victim to a romance scam is still very real. So, how can you protect yourself from romance scams in the coming year? Here are some tips to help you avoid becoming a victim of a romance scam in 2023:
Do your research: Before getting involved with someone online, do your due diligence. Research the person’s name, photo, and social media profiles thoroughly to ensure that the person is who they say they are.
Avoid falling for “too good to be true” stories: One of the hallmarks of romance scams is the promise of a great life together, often with promises of money, gifts, and other benefits. Remember, if something seems too good to be true, it probably is.
Use caution when sharing personal information: Be wary of requests for personal information, such as your address, Social Security number, or bank account information. Legitimate online relationships are built on trust, not on requests for personal data.
Be wary of requests for money: If someone you meet online starts asking for money, it’s a major red flag that they may be a scammer. Never send money to someone you barely know, even if they seem to be in a difficult situation.
Don’t be afraid to walk away: If someone you meet online makes you feel uncomfortable or like something is wrong, don’t be scared to walk away. Your safety and security should always come first.
How To Stop Romance Scams in 2023?
If you or anyone you know has been involved in a romance scam, the best way to stop it is by reporting the crime immediately. The authorities have the necessary resources and expertise to investigate and bring justice to those responsible for preying on vulnerable individuals seeking love and companionship. By taking action and reporting the scam, you protect yourself and others who may be at risk of falling victim to these deceitful schemes. Remember, being proactive and alert is the key to preventing these crimes from happening again.
Summary
To wrap up, remember that romance scams happen to people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds – but with the proper knowledge, they can be avoided. Do your research, remain suspicious if things move too quickly or seem too good to be true, and don’t offer too many details about your life and finances. And when in doubt? Walk away! Believe in yourself and your gut instincts – they will never lead you astray. Don’t forget to stay up-to-date with the latest information on how to avoid romance scams in 2023 so we can all work together to protect these vulnerable members of our communities. Contact our sextortion helpline 24/7
