Romance scam

Is it love that they're feeling?

Maybe it is...or maybe they are just trying to scam you.

Look out for these red flags and be suspicious if:

  • Someone you haven't met in person professes their love to you.
  • Person wants to quickly move to a private or different mode of communication (email, text, Whatsapp etc.)
  • They always have an excuse not to meet in person.
  • You receive poorly/oddly written messages, sometimes even addresssing you by the wrong name.
  • The individual claims to live close to you but is working overseas.
  • They act distressed or angry to guilt you into sending money.
  • They discourage you from discussing them or their situation with your friends and family.

If someone you have never met is pressuring you to send money, don't be afraid to say NO!

If you have been a victim of a romance scam, or any other type of fraud or cybercrime, please contact your local police as soon as possible. It is also recommended that you report the instance of a scam, fraud or cybercrime, whether you are a victim or not, to the Canadian Anti-fraud Centre (CAFC).

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