Know More Romance Scam: What Is It, How It Works, How to Prevent It

Jakarta – In the fast-growing evolving digital age, human connections are no longer limited to the real world. The internet has changed the way we communicate, make friends and find love.

However, behind the convenience and freedom that digital technology offers, there are huge risks that can ruin one's life. One such threat that is increasingly rampant is Romance scam. 

Well, here’s to know all about romance scam, how it works, and how to prevent this happen. 

What is romance scam?

Romance scam refers to a type of online scam where individuals use deception and emotional manipulation to exploit someone's feelings of love and trust in order to steal money or personal information. These scams are also known as romance scams or sweetheart scams.

In a typical romance scam, a scammer often pretends to be a romantic interest, establishes an emotional connection with their target, and then fabricates a crisis or need for financial assistance. 

They may ask for money, gift cards, or personal information under false pretenses. Romance scam can take place on social media, dating websites, or through email, and they can be financially and emotionally devastating for the victims.

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• female daily

How Romance scam works

1. Initial Contact

Scammers create fake profiles on social media, dating websites, or online forums, often using stolen photos and identities. They pose as attractive, caring, and desirable individuals to attract potential victims.

2. Building Trust

Once the scammer connects with someone online, they initiate conversations and develop a virtual relationship. They may use flattery, affectionate messages, and shared interests to create a sense of emotional intimacy and trust.

3. Manipulating Emotions

As the relationship progresses, the scammer often plays on the victim's emotions. They may share personal stories and disclose vulnerabilities to strengthen the emotional bond. Victims may genuinely believe they are in love with the scammer.

4. Creating a Crisis

At a critical point in the relationship, the scammer fabricates a crisis or emergency situation. Common scenarios include medical emergencies, legal troubles, or financial hardships. They appeal to the victim's emotions and request financial assistance.

5. Requesting Money

The scammer asks the victim for money to resolve the supposed crisis. They may request funds via wire transfer, prepaid gift cards, or other untraceable methods. Victims, who feel emotionally invested, may send money out of concern for their online "partner."

6. Continuing Deception

After receiving money, scammers may disappear temporarily or continue manipulating the victim. They may invent additional crises or reasons for financial support.

7. Repeat Scamming

Some scammers maintain multiple fake profiles and deceive multiple victims simultaneously, making their scams even more lucrative.

1. Don't Give Personal Information

Never give out personal information such as credit card numbers, bank account numbers, or other financial details to people you know online.

2. Verify Identity

Try to verify someone's identity before you get too involved in an online relationship. This can be done by searching for information about them online or by using an identity verification service.

3. Report the Scam

If you fall victim to a love scam, immediately report the incident to the authorities and the online platform where you met the scammer.

Halaman Selanjutnya

1. Initial Contact