Romance Scams: When “Love” Turns Into a Lie
February is all about love — but unfortunately, scammers use this season to take advantage of people looking for connection.
How Romance Scams Usually Start
Romance scams happen when someone pretends to form a relationship online to gain trust, then asks for money, gift cards, or personal information. These scams are emotional, manipulative, and increasingly common.
Scammers often reach out through:
- Dating apps or websites
- Social media (Facebook, Instagram, etc.)
- Text messages or email
They may claim to live far away, be in the military, or be working overseas — and they quickly build an emotional connection.
Red Flags to Watch for
Be cautious if someone:
- Moves the conversation off the app quickly
- Avoids video calls or meeting in person
- Says they’re in a financial emergency
- Asks for gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency
- Tries to isolate you from friends or family
- Pressures you to “keep the relationship secret”
If something feels off, trust your instincts.
What To Do If You Are Unsure
- Stop engaging and remember to never send money or personal information
- Verify independently by talking to a trusted friend or family member
- Report the account on the platform you’re using
- Contact NESC if you’re worried or already sent funds
How NESC Can Help
If you ever receive a suspicious request or think you may be targeted by a scam, pause and contact NESC directly, we can help:
- Review your account activity
- Freeze or protect your accounts if needed
- Talk through next steps — judgment-free
At NESC we’re here to help protect what matters most.