The internet has drastically changed the way in which we live our lives, and dating is no exception. Online dating through different platforms and apps has grown increasingly common, with many relying on these to make connections and find partners. Unfortunately, while you may use these apps to look for love, others will use them to look for victims. Romance scams are on the rise, so understanding the different tactics used by scammers is critical to protecting yourself. The following blog explores what you should know about these matters, including the importance of working with a San Diego consumer lawyer to help if you believe you are the victim of a scam.
What Are Romance Scams and What Ruses are Most Popular?
Romance scams are online ruses in which the perpetrator pretends to be a romantic interest as a means to build a relationship with them. The primary goal is to obtain their trust and get closer to the victim so that they can steal their information or manipulate them into providing money.
One of the most common ruses used by scammers is catfishing. This occurs when someone uses the photos of another person and communicates as them ot build a relationship with another person, without ever meeting in person.
Another common scam used by those online who target those looking for love is to pretend to be a member of the military as a means of building trust, only to ask for money for supplies, flights, or medical care. This is an ideal ruse for many, as they can easily come up with excuses as to why they cannot meet or video chat without raising suspicion.
Finally, scammers may gain your trust as a means of building a sexual relationship with you in which sensitive photos or videos are exchanged. However, this can quickly become a “sextortion” scam, in which the scammer uses these images to blackmail you into cooperating with them.
What Are Signs of a Scam?
In general, one of the most common signs that someone is a scammer is lovebombing. This is a manipulation method in which someone, in this case, an online match, gives you an overwhelming amount of attention and affection from the very beginning of the relationship. While it may seem like a typical infatuation, this is a tactic used to gain control over you. They may inundate you with strong language, like calling you their soulmate or saying you were sent to them by a divine force to overinflate their feelings toward you.
One sign that the person on the other side of the screen is a scammer is their aversion to meeting in person or even video chatting. They may continually find excuses to avoid meeting or video calling because they are not actually who they say they are. This is one of the most prominent signs that someone is a catfish.
If you have reason to believe you are the victim of a romance scam in California, it is imperative to connect with an experienced attorney with Barthel Legal as soon as possible. Our firm understands how difficult these matters can be, which is why our team will do everything in our power to help you reclaim your identity. Contact us today to learn more
