JOHNSTON COUNTY – A Johnston County woman says she lost a half million dollars in a romance scam. The victim was trying to find companionship but ended up losing most of her life savings.
It started back in January 2019. The woman met a man online, and over the following weeks, through countless emails, fell in love with him even though they had not met in person. He said he wasn’t from the United States, thus his reason, and many excuses, for being unable to travel to meet.
The electronic communications continued. Soon, the man began asking for money from the 73 year-old victim. Between 2019 and April 2023, the victim says she sent multiple money transfers totaling about $500,000.
The man recently promised to pay back some of the money but never did. When she began asking questions why, he reportedly threatened to post nude photos of her on social media.
Local authorities are investigating the case. They say it took the victim four years to realize she was conned out of her money. It wasn’t love, it was a scam.
The FBI says about $1 billion was lost in 2021 due to romance scams. Since most originate overseas, it is difficult for the FBI to track down the suspects. These scams prey on people’s heartstrings and some people don’t want to report, or admit, they have been swindled.
The FBI says there are red flags to watch for. Beware if the individual seems too perfect or quickly asks you to leave a dating service or social media site to communicate directly. Beware if they attempt to isolate you from your friends or request inappropriate photos or financial information that can later be used for extortion.
Research the person’s photo and profile using online searches to see if their image, name, or details have been used elsewhere.
Like this case, scammers come up with excuses why they can’t meet in person. And never send money to someone you haven’t met.
Go slowly and ask lots of questions.
