Hey, I just met you… and this is crazy… but here’s a scam, fall for it maybe? As the hope of a new summer love fills the air, you may be getting ready to jump back into the online dating scene. However, fraudsters are also waiting to make your acquaintance, so keep yourself safe from romance fraud with these tips from the Edmonton Police Service.

 

1. Be suspicious

Scammers will tell you exactly what you want to hear, which they can easily find out just by studying your profile. You like Justin Bieber and cats? Cool, suddenly they do, too! You want a family? Guess, what – they have a kid ready to make you their new parent! Beware of other red flags, like if they constantly have an excuse not to meet you in person.

 

2. Protect yourself

If you’re meeting up with someone in person for the first time, make sure you’re meeting and staying at a public place. Tell a friend or family member where and when you’re going, and let them know when they should expect to hear from you again. Never meet up with someone if you feel like you’re being pressured into it. Always trust your gut!

 

3. Never send or accept money

Your supposed lover will make it seem like an emergency that they get money, gift cards, or Bitcoin from you immediately, and may even try to make you feel guilty if you don’t give it to them. If they ask you to accept money and then transfer it elsewhere, don’t do it! They’re likely trying to launder money, which is a criminal offense. End the conversation, block them, report them, move on.

 

4. Investigate

Do an image search of their profile picture or shared photos to see if they got it from a stock image site or someone else’s profile. Pay attention to any inconsistencies in their profile versus what they tell you in messages. Ask them for more details about a photo they sent previously to see if they can keep their story straight.

 

5. Report It

If you did send any money, report it immediately to your bank to see if they can stop the transfer. Gather as much information on the scammer as you can (screenshot messages, profiles, emails, etc) and contact the Edmonton Police Service. File a report with the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre and notify the online platform where you met the scammer.

 

Edmontonians lost over $3 million to romance fraud in 2020 and anyone can fall victim to it. So be proactive and talk to your friends, family, coworkers, neighbours – everyone! Find even more tips to keep safe at edmontonpolice.ca/romancescams.