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Dating or Defrauding? Avoid Romance Scams

Romance scammers tell all sorts of lies to steal people's hearts and money. Reports to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) show those lies are working. Nearly 70,000 people reported a romance scam, with $4 billion in reported losses to the FBI in 2023.

DFI is joining a national effort to help Washington residents spot and avoid these scams

Below you will find helpful resources and information.

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Understanding Romance Scams

Not all romance scams are the same, but many follow a similar pattern.

Scammers use dating apps, social media, and messaging apps to contact you.
They gain your trust but make excuses for not seeing you in person.
They ask for money due to a sudden "emergency" or great investment opportunity.
They pressure you to send money, gift cards, or cryptocurrency.
Once they have your money it is difficult to get it back.

How to Protect Yourself

To stay safe online, follow these steps:

Never send money, gift cards, or crypto to someone you have just met online.
Don't share personal and financial details on dating apps or social media.
Beware of people who try to move a relationship too fast and make excuses for not meeting in person.
Educate yourself about romance scams with the links below.

What to Do If You’re a Victim

Take these immediate steps if you suspect you are a victim of a romance scam:

Stop all communication with the scammer.
Check your financial accounts for unauthorized transactions.
Report any unauthorized transactions to your bank or credit union.
Report the scam to the proper authorities (see below).

How to Report a Romance Scam

If you believe you've been scammed, report it to official agencies that track fraud.

Learn About Romance Scams

Want to learn more about how these scams work? Check out these trusted resources:

General Information

Investment & Financial Scams

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