It’s Valentine’s Day, a day to show that special someone you care about them. But if your searching for love online the NT RCMP is asking “That you stay vigilant” and be aware of potential scams.
According to an RCMP news release, “In 2019, the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre received 972 complaints related to romance scams, which included 682 victims who lost over $19 million to scammers pretending to be in love.”
If you are searching for love online, NT RCMP warns “Scammers will use fake profiles on social media and through popular dating apps, to gain the trust of their victims over a period of time before stealing from them.”
NT RCMP has provided CKLB Radio with some tips to help you recognize the signs of a scammer in a new online relationship and to help you stay safe:
- The person moves the relationship quickly from initial contact to ‘’love’’.
- They claim to live nearby but work out of the country.
- They claim to have a good job but ask for financial help.
NT RCMP says that if you believe you are facing a potential romance scam:
- Never send money – requesting money is a telltale sign of a scam.
- Never agree to accept and transfer money or goods – this is helping someone to commit fraud and it is illegal.
- Never send intimate photos – these open you to blackmail attempts
- Never share personal or financial information – it can provide access to your personal computer and accounts.
If you are a victim of a scam:
- Stop all contact with the alleged scammer.
- Contact your financial institution to halt any outstanding payments.
- Report the situation to your local detachment with as much information as possible.
- File a complaint with the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre through their confidential online reporting system or by calling 1-888-495-8501.
“Love is in the air,” NT RCMP said. “But beware.”
arthur.green@cklbradio.com
Twitter.com/artcgreen
