Type of scam
Romance Scam
A scammer builds a loving relationship with you online, sometimes for months. Then they ask for money for an emergency, a trip to see you, or an investment.
Also called: Sweetheart scam, Catfishing, Dating scam, Pig butchering
The one thing to remember
Never send money to someone you have not met in person, no matter how real it feels.
Which one sounds like what happened?
How it happens
- Someone friendly contacts you on Facebook, a dating site, or a wrong-number text.
- They are very kind and attentive, and talk to you every day. They may say “I love you” quickly.
- They say they live far away: working on an oil rig, in the military, or a doctor overseas.
- They can never video call or meet. Something always goes wrong.
- Then there's an emergency: a hospital bill, customs fee, plane ticket, or “investment” they want you to join.
Warning signs
- They won't video chat or meet in person.
- They say “I love you” very soon.
- Their stories don't add up, or details change.
- They ask for money, gift cards, or cryptocurrency.
- They want you to keep the relationship secret from family.
What to do
- Don't send money, gift cards, or crypto, ever.
- Talk to a friend or family member about the relationship.
- Search their photos online (ask someone to help with a “reverse image search”). Scammers often use stolen photos.
- If they get angry when you say no, that tells you the truth.
What it looks like
Real examples of this scam. Yours may look a little different.
Last checked: October 31, 2026