The perpetrator uses a false online persona to win over the victim’s heart and trust before committing confidence fraud as a sweetheart scam, sometimes called a romance scam.
People who engage in sweetheart scams frequently prey on the lonely or the weak, and they employ a wide array of techniques to acquire their confidence. They may, for instance, pose as a member of the armed forces or an alien from another nation. As a further tactic, they could offer financial assistance to their victims or even send them money or presents.
Scam Tactics
The con artist will seek payment after winning over the victim’s confidence. Some people may make up for reasons like unexpected medical costs, trip costs, or other problems to get money. They may also say they will pay it back, but that is just lip service.
Victims of sweetheart scams can suffer emotionally and financially due to the ordeal. Notify the proper authorities immediately if you suspect you have been a victim of a sweetheart scam.
Depression, anxiety, and trauma can set in when a victim experiences emotional betrayal and humiliation.
Reporting a suspected sweetheart scam to the proper authorities should be your top priority. This can aid with the recovery of any lost monies and help stop others from becoming victims of the same fraudster.
Document every correspondence, bank dealings, and email that bolsters your case.
Anyone who has fallen prey to a sweetheart scam should seek help from loved ones, a therapist, or friends and family. You can start to heal and move on from the trauma if you talk about what happened. Remember that you have support and that asking for assistance is entirely acceptable.
Ensure Your Safety
To protect yourself from falling prey to a sweetheart scam, consider the following:
Use caution while meeting someone online. Stay away from strangers who ask for personal information.
You should be wary if someone approaches you and begs for money, especially after you have just met.
Get the facts. Try to confirm a person’s claims of military service or nationality if you are suspicious of them.
Last but not least, victims of sweetheart scams may deal with the long-term consequences of this problem. Always exercise caution when meeting someone online, and never hesitate to report questionable behavior to the proper authorities. Seek support and be aware that there are options to assist you in your recovery if you have been a victim of a sweetheart scam.
