Thousands Of Western PA People Are Romance Scam Victims, FBI Says

Pittsburgh PA

10 February, 2021

9:38 AM

Description

PITTSBURGH – With Cupid readying his arrows for Valentine's Day, the FBI is warning people that the special day can lead to heartbreak, embarrassment, and financial loss. Well-rehearsed criminals search dating sites, apps, chat rooms, and other social media networking sites attempting to build "relationships" for the sole purpose of getting someone's money or personally identifiable information. Many people in western Pennsylvania have fallen victim to romance scams, which also is known as confidence fraud. According to the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center or IC3, romance scams, also called confidence fraud, affected more than 5,700 people in Western PA in 2020, up from 3,600 people in 2019. This resulted in losses totaling $20.3 million dollars in 2020. FBI Pittsburgh has also seen an increase in the number of victim's over the age of 60 being taken by these scammers. To avoid becoming a victim, FBI Pittsburgh recommends the following: Only use reputable, nationally-recognized dating websites; however, be aware that scammers may be using them too. Research photos and profiles in other online search tools and ask questions. Never provide financial information, loan money, nor allow bank accounts to be used for transfers of funds. Do not allow attempts to isolate you from family and friends. Do not blindly believe the stories of severe life circumstances, tragedies, family deaths, injuries, or other hardships geared at keeping your interest and concern. If planning to meet someone in person you have met online, meet in a public place and let someone know where you will be and what time you should return home. If traveling to a foreign country to meet someone check the State Department's Travel Advisories beforehand, provide an itinerary to family and friends, and do not travel alone if possible. If you suspect your online relationship is a scam, the FBI recommends ceasing all contact immediately. If you are a victim who has already sent money, immediately report the incident to your financial institution, file a complaint with the Internet Crimes Complaint Center and contact law enforcement. Be the first to know what's happening in your town and area. Sign up for free to get Patch emails and don't miss a minute of local and state news: https://patch.com/subscribe.