How the scam works
What happens
A scammer builds an emotional relationship online and later invents an emergency, travel problem, customs fee, medical expense, or investment opportunity. The manipulation may continue for weeks or months.
Example scenario
An online partner claims to be stranded abroad and needs money for a flight or customs release.Example wording is illustrative and may differ from real scam messages.
Warning signs
Red flags to look for
01
Relationship becomes intense very quickly
02
Repeated reasons not to video call or meet
03
Emergency money request
04
Requests for secrecy
Safer response
What to do next
01
Do not send money or identity documents
02
Reverse-image-search profile photos
03
Discuss the situation with someone you trust
04
Preserve messages and payment records