Romance scams: when a relationship becomes a money request

Before trusting a new Facebook or Instagram contact, follow the social-profile identity checks. Photos, years of posts and mutual followers cannot by themselves authenticate the person behind the conversation.

The relationship is the delivery mechanism

Romance scams are effective because the request for money comes after trust has been built. The person may communicate frequently, share personal stories, promise a future together and create explanations for why meeting is difficult.

The financial request may begin with a medical emergency, travel problem, family crisis, customs fee or temporary loan. In other cases the relationship shifts into an investment or cryptocurrency opportunity.

Red flags

• repeated reasons they cannot meet in person;
• a rapid move to private messaging;
• requests for money, gift cards, cryptocurrency or account access;
• pressure to keep the relationship or financial activity secret;
• investment advice from a new romantic contact;
• photos or identity details that do not withstand independent checking.

If you are helping someone else

Confrontation can make a person defend the relationship more strongly. Focus on specific inconsistencies and independent verification rather than calling them foolish. Encourage a pause before any additional payment.