How it works
On dating apps or social media, someone seems to fall for you fast. They always have an excuse not to meet or video call. After weeks or months of building trust, an emergency arises — medical bills, travel, customs fees — and they need money.
Red flags
- Falls in love unusually quickly
- Always too busy / overseas / on an oil rig / in the military to meet
- Photos look professional or too perfect (try a reverse image search)
- First request for money, however small
Real-world example
"I would fly to see you tomorrow but I'm stuck in Dubai with my passport seized. Just $1,200 will get me home to you, my love."
What to do
- 01Stop sending money. Tell a trusted friend or family member.
- 02Reverse-image-search their photos.
- 03Report to the dating platform and to your national fraud line.
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