The Upper Ottawa Valley OPP is investigating after a local resident recently reported a loss of over $50,000 as a result of a Romance Scam.
Police say the victim entered into an online relationship and over the course of several months sent thousands of dollars to the scammer in a foreign country.
The Upper Ottawa Valley OPP say Romance Scams cause victims severe financial hardship and personal embarrassment, which, despite massive losses, often inhibits their decision to report the crime.
Police say the Romance Scam typically targets single or recently unattached people, through singles and dating related websites, social media platforms or e-mail blasts.
In some cases, prolonged interaction with scammers have cost s has cost some victims tens of thousands of dollars before the ‘relationship’ ends, usually without ever meeting in person. Among the most vulnerable are seniors.
The OPP and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre have some tips to help you avoid becoming a victim of the Romance Scam.
- Don’t give out any personal information in an email or when you are chatting online. Educate yourself. Check the person’s name, the company name, and the addresses used.
- Ask yourself – ‘Would someone I have never met really declare their love for me after only a few letters or emails?’ If the answer is no, report it to police.
- Never send money or give personal credit card or online account details to anyone you do not know and trust. A request to send money to a foreign country to someone you have never personally met should be a red flag.
- Check website addresses carefully. Scammers often set up fake websites with addresses that are very similar to legitimate dating websites.
If you or someone you know suspect they’ve been a victim of the Romance Scam contact your local police service or the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-496-8501 or visit their website at www.antifraudcentre.ca
(written by: Rudy Kadlec)
