Is my online relationship a romance scam?
A person you met online who cannot meet in person and begins asking for money may be building a romance scam.
“I love you, but I am stuck overseas and need help paying an emergency hospital bill. I will repay you when I come home.”
Why this is suspicious
Romance scammers build trust over time before inventing travel, medical, military, investment, or family emergencies. Photos, video clips, documents, and affectionate daily messages do not prove the person's identity.
Warning signs
- They repeatedly cannot meet in person
- The relationship becomes intense very quickly
- An emergency suddenly requires money
- They request gift cards, wire transfers, cryptocurrency, or payment apps
What to do next
- Do not send money or financial information
- Talk with someone you trust before taking action
- Stop if the person pressures you or isolates you
- If you already paid, contact the payment company or bank promptly
If you already clicked or paid
For guidance on what to do after a possible scam, visit the FTC’s recovery guide. It covers different situations, including payments and personal information.
Official source: FTC romance scam guidance
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