(Washington, D.C.) - Today, U.S. Secret Service investigators participated in the Capital Regional Virtual Cybersecurity Summit on Romance Scams, hosted by Data Connectors. The Secret Service Global Investigative Operations Center along with its partners at the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the American Association of Retired Persons and the email security company Agari spoke about the negative impact of romance scams, which are on the rise, and how to avoid becoming a victim.
Romance scams start as seemingly genuine online relationships. However, scammers often create fake profiles on dating sites and apps, or contact their targets through social media. Once trust has been built over time, the scammers will begin repeatedly asking for money. Usually the scammers tell heart-wrenching stories of a medical emergency, or unforeseen travel expenses, customs fees or gambling debts – anything to convince the target to send them money. Scammers will continue engaging the victim, fabricating stories and circumstances in which more money is needed for an even more dire situation. Most victims never meet their supposed love interest in person. Once the scammer cons all the money they can from the victim, they move on, never to be heard from again. Victims are often left penniless, embarrassed to have fallen for the scam and not sure where to turn for assistance. In 2020, the Federal Trade Commission, estimates romance scams accounted for a record $304 million in losses.
“Romance scams represent one of the most significant types of cases the Secret Service investigates to combat elder fraud and the victimization of the most vulnerable members of the U.S. public,” said Jason Kane, Special Agent in Charge of the Secret Service Criminal Investigative Division. “Those who bilk older Americans, and many others, out of their life savings through their cunning lies, threats and financial schemes must recognize that all resources will be deployed to end their despicable crimes. The Secret Service, along with our many law enforcement partners will put those responsible in jail, and bring a measure of justice to the victims.”
The romance scam symposium demonstrates the agency’s commitment to sharing research, trends, tips and training throughout law enforcement, the business community and other partners to increase awareness and prevention of romance scams. The Secret Service remains committed to ending romance scams within our communities.