Online Romance Scams – How to Protect Yourself
Finding companionship online has become increasingly common, but unfortunately, so has falling victim to online romance scams. Scammers use dating platforms, social media, and even random text messages to build emotional connections and trick consumers into sending money or sharing personal information.
As your trusted community bank, we want to help you recognize the warning signs and keep your finances safe. Below are the most common types of online romance scams today and the steps you can take to protect yourself and loved ones.
How Romance Scams Typically Work
Modern romance scammers have become more sophisticated, using emotional manipulation, technology, and urgency to pressure victims. Common tactics include:
- “Grooming” and Emotional Manipulation: Scammers often spend weeks messaging, calling, and bonding with victims — frequently using pet names, compliments, or “love‑bombing” to build trust quickly.
- Fake Identities Enhanced by AI: Scammers now use AI‑generated profile photos, deepfake videos, and fabricated social media profiles to appear more believable.
- Requests to Move Conversations Off‑Platform: The scammer may ask to switch to encrypted apps like WhatsApp, a sign they want privacy to avoid platform detection, a recognized red flag in relationship‑investment scams.
- A Sudden “Emergency” or Financial Request: Once trust is established, scammers create a crisis: medical bills, customs fees, frozen bank accounts, urgent travel needs, or an “investment opportunity.”
Top Warning Signs of a Romance Scam
Be cautious if someone you’ve met online:
- Requests money, gift cards, crypto transfers, or wire payments — often urgently.
- Claims to be overseas (military, oil rig, international business) and unable to meet in person.
- Avoids live video calls or appears “off” due to potential deepfake manipulation.
- Pressures you to keep the relationship private or secret.
- Suggests moving money into new accounts or asks you to move funds on their behalf (a common sign of financial exploitation).
How to Protect Yourself Against Online Romance Scams
1. Never Send Money to Someone You Haven’t Met
Most transfers — especially wires, Zelle, gift cards, and crypto — are nearly impossible to reverse once sent.
2. Pause Before Acting on Urgency
Scammers rely on emotional momentum. Taking a moment to talk with a trusted friend, family member, or banker can prevent major loss.
3. Enable Account Alerts
Set up transaction alerts to catch unauthorized charges quickly.
4. Discuss Concerns with Your Bank
Our team regularly identifies patterns associated with scams.
If You Believe You’re Being Scammed
- Stop all communication immediately.
- Document everything — screenshots, usernames, messages.
- Contact your bank right away so we can help secure your accounts.
- Report the incident to the FTC.
We’re Here to Help
Your safety matters to us. If you have questions or suspect suspicious activity, reach out to our Customer Care team or visit any of our branch locations. Together, we can keep your accounts and your confidence secure.
