RCMP statistics show 972 Canadians lost $19 million to romance scams in 2019.
The scammers use fake social media profiles and popular dating apps to gain the trust of a victim over a period of time. The losses average $28,000 per victim.
The RCMP recommends all those looking for relationships online to be vigilant. You should always be suspicious of requests for money, even if someone insists it is for an emergency situation.
Everyone should be wary of requests for personal and financial information or intimate pictures. Other telltale signs include claims from the scammer who claims to live nearby but is working overseas.
Police said it is important to report scammers, stop all payments, and block contact.
Make sure to report scams to your local police and include as much information as possible. File a report with the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC) through their confidential online reporting system or by calling 1-888-495-8501.
