Insights & Information

Protecting Yourself from Sweetheart Scams: What You Need to Know

  • By Sikorsky Credit Union
  • February 10, 2025

In today’s digital age, online relationships have become increasingly common. While many connections are genuine, some scammers will use these interactions to build connections, gain trust and later engage in what are known as 'sweetheart scams.' These situations can result in emotional heartbreak and significant financial loss. Here’s what you need to know about sweetheart scams.

What is a Sweetheart Scam?

A sweetheart scam occurs when a fraudster deceives someone into an online romantic relationship with the intent of manipulating them into sending money or sharing sensitive personal information. These scams often take place on dating websites or social media platforms. Scammers typically create fake profiles, using stolen photos and fictitious identities to build trust and emotional connections with their victims.

Warning Signs of a Sweetheart Scam

It’s important to recognize red flags that could indicate a scammer is trying to deceive you. Some common warning signs include situations that seem too good to be true, where the person appears overly perfect, attractive, and charming while using flattering words to build trust quickly. They may also move too fast in the relationship, professing deep love or commitment within a short period, sometimes after just a few conversations. A scammer will often avoid face-to-face interactions and make excuses to evade video calls or in-person meetings. They may share emotional stories of financial hardship, such as medical expenses or family emergencies, hoping to elicit sympathy. The ultimate goal is to request money, often under the guise of travel expenses, medical emergencies, or legal issues. Additionally, scammers often use poor grammar and spelling, with unusual phrasing that may hint at a non-native speaker or automated scam.

How to Protect Yourself

To avoid falling victim to a sweetheart scam, follow these safety tips:

  • Be Skeptical – If someone seems too perfect or moves too fast in a relationship, take your time and do your research.
  • Verify Their Identity – Perform a reverse image search on their photos to see if they appear on scam warning sites or belong to someone else.
  • Never Send Money – Legitimate romantic partners will never ask you for money, gift cards, or personal banking details.
  • Keep Personal Information Private – Avoid sharing personal details like your home address, financial information, or passwords.

What to Do If You’ve Been Scammed

If you realize you’ve fallen victim to a sweetheart scam, take immediate action to protect yourself:

  • Stop Contact Immediately – Cease all communication with the scammer.
  • Report the Scam – Inform the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (www.ic3.gov).
  • Monitor Your Finances – If you’ve shared banking details, notify your financial institution to secure your accounts.
  • Seek Support – Falling for a scam can be emotionally draining. Don’t hesitate to talk to a trusted friend or family member for support.

Sweetheart scams are becoming more common but staying informed and cautious can help you avoid them. Always be mindful of warning signs and never share passwords or personal financial information. Awareness plays a crucial role in preventing scams. Relationships should be built on trust and honesty - not deception and fraud.