STOP AND THINK: Protect Yourself from Romance Scams
09/12/2025
By: Fidelity Bank
SPOTLIGHT: Protect Yourself from Romance Scams
Romance scams can happen to anyone. Fraudsters don’t care about age, background, or location—their only goal is money. These scams often begin online, where criminals build trust through text messages, phone calls, video chats, or even AI-generated profiles. Over time, victims may believe their relationship is genuine, only to be manipulated into sending money or making risky financial moves.
Romance scams are especially dangerous because they combine emotional manipulation with financial exploitation. Victims may be persuaded to pull from savings, borrow against retirement, or take out loans to “help” their supposed partner. In reality, the person on the other side is a scammer dedicated to stealing money and destroying trust. Globally, romance scams caused $3.8 billion in losses in 2024—and the numbers continue to rise.
Common Tactics in Romance Scams
- False relationships: Fraudsters build trust through digital communication but avoid meeting in person, always making excuses.
- Financial pleas: Scammers often claim emergencies—medical bills, travel costs, or family crises—and pressure victims to send money quickly.
- Emotional manipulation: Victims may feel obligated to help because of strong emotional bonds, even if they’ve never met the individual in real life.
- Advanced technology: Criminals now use AI-generated photos and voice cloning to make fake identities appear even more convincing.
STOP AND THINK Red Flags
- If someone you’ve only texted, called, or video chatted with refuses to meet in person, it’s a red flag.
- If excuses always arise when you try to meet face-to-face, it’s a red flag.
- If your “partner” asks for money for themselves or a family member, it’s a red flag.
- If you’re pressured into frequent large withdrawals or financial transfers, it’s a red flag.
- If your online “relationship” continues after financial requests begin, it’s a scam.
Protect Yourself
The best defense is awareness. Never send money to someone you haven’t met in person and whose identity you can’t fully verify. If you’re unsure, STOP AND THINK—talk to a trusted friend, family member, or your financial institution before making any decisions.
At Fidelity Bank, we’re committed to helping protect your finances and your peace of mind. If you suspect fraud, contact us immediately.
More in our STOP AND THINK Fraud Awareness Series
Learn how to spot scams, protect your finances, and stay one step ahead of fraudsters:
- Contractor and Home Improvement Scams
- How to Protect Yourself From Check Fraud
- Mobile Deposit Check Fraud: Spotting the Warning Signs
- IRS Telephone Scam: How to Protect Yourself
- Text Message Scams
- Computer Tech Support Scams
Stay alert, stay informed — and always STOP AND THINK.