Online dating and friendship scams
Romance Scams Targeting Seniors
You meet on a dating site or social media. They’re kind, attentive and always there to talk. Then, weeks or months later, there’s an emergency and they need money. Romance scams cause some of the biggest losses for people 60 and over.
Warning signs
- You met online, on social media, a dating site or a “wrong number” text
- They say “I love you” quickly, but can never meet in person or video chat
- They work far away: overseas, on an oil rig, in the military, or as a doctor abroad
- They ask for money for a ticket, medical bills, customs fees or a business problem
- They want gift cards, wire transfers or cryptocurrency, and ask you to keep it secret
- They offer to teach you how to invest
What to do
- Never send money to someone you have only met online, no matter the story.
- Talk to a family member or friend you trust about the relationship.
- Search their photos online. Scammers often use pictures of other people.
- Stop contact if they ask for money, and don’t let them make you feel guilty.
- If you already paid or shared information, see what to do right now.
Talk to us before you pay, click or share anything
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