SCAMS: Romance Scams
Last February we talked about the most common healthcare scams, how to identify them, and how to avoid them. These scams don’t let up, though, so this year we’re going to be talking about the 4 most common scams targeting older adults and their families! 33% of seniors active on social media have fallen for a scam, averaging $2,700 each, according to a recent survey.
This week, we’ll be discussing Romance Scams targeting older adults. These scams often start off looking like innocent online interactions but can quickly evolve into emotional manipulation and financial exploitation. Seniors, especially those experiencing social isolation or dementia, are particularly vulnerable to these scams and suffer significant emotional and financial harm.
Romance scams typically begin with someone reaching out online or by text, pretending to be a romantic interest. The scammer will often build a relationship quickly, creating a false sense of intimacy and trust. They may claim to be a soldier stationed abroad, royalty in another country, or someone facing an emergency, all while asking for money. They may even promise to pay the person back once the emergency is over—but they never will. The scammer rarely meets in person, instead using various tactics to manipulate someone into sending funds or personal information.
How to identify these scams?
Rapid Affection – The scammer professes love or deep affection within a very short period of time.
Requests for Money – They ask for financial help, often under the guise of an urgent emergency or personal crisis. This can include asking for things like gift cards!
Excuses to Avoid In-Person Meetings – They continually postpone or avoid video calls or meetings.
Beware: AI – Messages, photos, and even phone/video calls can be faked with AI nowadays, so just because you see or hear someone online, doesn’t mean they’re real!
Inconsistent Stories – Their personal details or backstories may change over time, seem too vague, or seem too unusual.
Pressure for Personal Information – They request access to sensitive financial or personal details.
Did you know? Romance scams are incredibly damaging, with people losing over $547 million in 2021, according to the FTC. Older adults lose the most from these scams, averaging $9,000 per person compared to an average of $750 for 18-29 year olds.
Recognizing the signs is key to protecting yourself and your loved ones, but it’s important to make sure you’re protected as well.
Protecting Against Romance Scams
Stay Skeptical – Always be cautious if someone you’ve met online professes love quickly or asks for money.
Verify Identities – Use reverse image searches to check the authenticity of online photos or profiles.
Don’t Share Personal Information – Never provide sensitive details like your bank account, Social Security number, or passwords to strangers.
Consult Trusted Family – Involve loved ones when making decisions about online interactions, especially when money is involved.
Dementia – Older adults with dementia or Alzheimer’s are especially vulnerable to scams, including romance ones! They can be convinced that they’ve always been in a relationship with someone, so keep a watchful eye if someone you love has memory issues.
This is a lot of information, but you can always remember this rule of thumb: trust your instincts! If something feels off, rushed, or too good to be true, it probably is!
If you or a loved one wants help protecting yourself against these scams—or are worried you may have fallen victim to one—don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m here to help!