As Valentine’s Day approaches, love is in the air—and unfortunately, so are romance scams. At Peshtigo National Bank, we’re committed to protecting our customers and community from financial fraud. Romance scams have been on the rise, especially during February, when emotions run high and scammers prey on individuals seeking connection. Here’s how to identify and avoid falling victim to these scams.
What Are Romance Scams? Romance scams occur when fraudsters create fake online personas to establish relationships with their targets. Once trust is built, they often fabricate emergencies or personal crises to solicit money. These scams frequently take place on dating websites, social media platforms, or through unsolicited messages.
Red Flags to Watch For:
- Too Good to Be True: If someone you’ve just met online is overly affectionate or moves the relationship forward quickly, proceed with caution.
- Requests for Money: Scammers often ask for funds to cover medical emergencies, travel expenses, or other fabricated situations.
- Unwillingness to Meet in Person: Fraudsters typically avoid face-to-face interactions or video calls, offering excuses to maintain anonymity.
- Inconsistent Stories: Pay attention to any discrepancies or unusual details in their background stories.
How to Protect Yourself:
- Verify Their Identity: Conduct reverse image searches of their profile pictures and cross-check their information.
- Never Send Money: If someone you haven’t met in person asks for financial assistance, it’s likely a scam.
- Keep Personal Info Private: Avoid sharing sensitive details like your banking information or Social Security number.
- Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off, listen to your gut.
What to Do If You Suspect a Scam:
- Stop All Communication: Cease contact immediately with the suspected scammer.
- Report the Incident: Notify the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the platform where the interaction occurred. 1-877-FTC-HELP (382-4357) or online at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
- Contact Us: If you’ve shared financial information or suspect fraudulent activity, call Peshtigo National Bank right away. We’re here to help secure your accounts and guide you through the next steps.
This February let’s celebrate love while staying vigilant against romance scams. At Peshtigo National Bank, your safety is our priority. Stay informed, protect your finances, and share these tips with friends and family to keep our community safe from fraud.