An internet love scam is a type of scam where a cyber criminal adopts a fake online personal to win their victim’s affection and trust. The scammer then uses the illusion of a romantic or close relationship to manipulate and/or steal from the victim. These scams usually happen on social media sites, dating apps, or websites, and involve cat fishing, love bombing, and manipulation.
According to the Singapore Police Force, there were at least 175 cases of internet love scams between January to March 2020 with total losses amounting to at least S$6.6 million. In 2020 alone, internet love scams cost victims $33.1 million in Singapore.
To protect yourself from online romance scams, it is important to be cautious when interacting with strangers online. Never send money or gift cards to someone you have never met in person. Be wary of people who ask for your personal information or who refuse to meet you in person.
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