Romance Scams: What They Are and How to Protect Your Heart — and Your Wallet

At Front Royal Credit Union, we believe in looking out for one another, and that includes helping you spot fraud before it causes harm. One of the most heartbreaking scams we see is the romance scam, where fraudsters take advantage of people’s trust and kindness to steal money.
Here’s what you need to know to protect yourself and your loved ones.

What Is a Romance Scam?
Romance scams happen when someone pretends to be interested in an online romantic relationship in order to trick you into sending them money. These scammers often connect with people through dating websites, apps, or social media.
They take time to build a connection, gain your trust, and create what feels like a real connection. Once they’ve won you over emotionally they start asking for help, often in ways that tug at your heartstrings.

How Do Romance Scams Work?
Scammers create fake profiles with photos and details that seem genuine. They may say they live far away, overseas, on a military base, or working on a project in a remote area, making it easier to explain why you can’t meet in person yet.
Once a bond is formed, they start asking for money. Common stories include:
  • They’re stuck overseas and need help with travel expenses to visit you.
  • They have a sudden medical emergency.
  • Their business deal has fallen through, and they need a loan.
The requests often start small, but can quickly grow larger as the scam continues.

Warning Signs of a Romance Scam
Be cautious if someone you’ve met online:
  • Wants to move the conversation away from the platform quickly: to text, email, or phone.
  • Makes excuses for not meeting in person or video chatting.
  • Tells a dramatic story that leads to requests for money.
  • Asks for money to be sent via wire transfer, gift cards, cryptocurrency, or other hard-to-trace methods.
  • Pressures you to keep the relationship or their requests a secret.

How to Protect Yourself
  • Take it slow. Don’t rush into a relationship. Scammers try to create a sense of urgency to cloud your judgment.
  • Do a little digging. Reverse image search profile photos or look up details to see if they match what’s been shared.
  • Never send money or gifts to someone you haven’t met in person.
  • Talk to someone you trust. A new perspective can help spot red flags you might miss.
  • Report suspicious activity. If you think you’ve been targeted, contact our team at (540) 635-7133 and file a report at reportfraud.ftc.gov.

Final Thoughts from Front Royal Credit Union
We know how easy it is to want to help someone you care about — but fraudsters count on that generosity. A healthy relationship should never come with pressure to send money.
If something doesn’t feel right, pause and talk it through with us. We’re here to help protect you and your finances.

Posted by Amanda Thomas in Fraud and Scams.