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ECU Fraud Talks: Relationship Scams

Relationship scams can be devastating because they target more than your finances. These scams exploit trust, emotions, and personal connections to convince victims to share sensitive information or send money. Understanding how these scams work and recognizing the warning signs can help protect you from becoming a victim.


How Relationship Scams Work

Relationship scammers create fake profiles on dating apps, social media platforms, and other online communities. Their goal is to build trust and establish a relationship with potential victims before asking for money or personal information. Because these scams often begin with friendly conversations and emotional connections, they can be difficult to recognize.


Three Common Lies Relationship Scammers Tell

1. "I Can't Meet You in Person"

Scammers often create convincing stories to explain why they cannot meet face-to-face.

They may claim to be:

  • Traveling for work
  • Serving in the military
  • Working for an international organization
  • Living in another country

These excuses are designed to prevent you from verifying their identity.

Remember: Be cautious when someone repeatedly avoids meeting in person or participating in live video calls.


2. "I Need Your Help"

Once a scammer gains your trust, they often create a sense of urgency and ask for money or sensitive information.

They may claim they need help with:

  • Medical expenses
  • Travel costs to visit you
  • Unexpected emergencies
  • Investment opportunities

Their goal is to use your emotional connection to influence your decisions.

Remember: Never send money or share personal financial information with someone you have only met online.


3. "Here's How to Pay Me"

Relationship scammers typically request payment methods that are difficult to trace or recover.

They may instruct victims to:

  • Wire money
  • Purchase gift cards
  • Send cryptocurrency
  • Transfer money through payment apps

These payment methods make it easier for scammers to disappear with your money.

Remember: Requests for gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency should always be treated as major red flags.


How To Protect Yourself

To reduce your risk of becoming a victim:

  • Take a step back and pause before responding to emotional or urgent requests.
  • Watch for common red flags, especially when someone refuses to meet in person or quickly asks for money.
  • Talk to someone you trust if you are unsure about an online relationship or request.
  • Be skeptical of messages from celebrities, public figures, or other well-known individuals asking for money or personal information.


If You Think You've Been Scammed

If you believe you've fallen victim to a relationship scam:

  • Stop communicating with the scammer immediately.
  • Contact your financial institution as soon as possible.
  • Monitor your accounts for unauthorized activity.
  • Report the scam to the Federal Trade Commission.

Reporting the scam quickly may help limit additional losses and improve the chances of recovering funds.


We’re Here to Help!

If you believe your personal information or ECU accounts may be compromised, contact us immediately.

For additional fraud prevention resources and security tips, visit ecu.org/security.