MILLIONS of iPhone and Android users have been warned against a “poison arrow” that could lead to them losing thousands of dollars.
Scammers target victims in many ways, offering money, gifts, and sometimes love.
In 2021 alone, Americans who reported that they were victims of romance scams lost as much as $1billion in the scheme, according to Citibank.
Citibank has approximately 200million customer accounts worldwide, according to Forbes.
To prevent more customers from falling for a similar scam, the popular US-based bank released five major tips to avoid the false cupid arrow.
BE CAUTIOUS WHEN SHARING PERSONAL INFORMATION
When meeting new people, it is important to share information about yourself to gain trust and form a connection.
However, Citibank warns that scammers may use certain information – such as your location or job – to target you.
Remain cautious whenever sharing information that could hurt you down the line.
BE CAREFUL WITH COMMUNICATION
If you are meeting someone on a dating website or app, it is important to keep communication through that trusted application before meeting in person.
“…Sharing your phone number before you’ve verified the relationship can lead to unexpected consequences,” Citibank warned.
If you do choose to leave a dating app or website, consider using an encrypted messaging app like WhatsApp or Signal to further protect your information.
BE HONEST
One of the best ways to protect yourself from scammers is to trust your gut.
Citibank recommends that all customers “be suspicious” of potential connections that are always giving reasons for why they are unable to meet in person or video chat, making it difficult to verify their identity.
The bank also notes that if the online romance seems “too attractive or attentive,” it might be too good to be true.
RECOGNIZE INCONSISTENCIES
If you are talking with a potential beau online and find they’ve told you three different versions of what they do for work, or where they grew up – be cautious.
“If things aren’t adding up, there’s probably a reason,” Citibank warns.
While it is normal for people to forget things now and then, the bank urges people to be cautious if there are many holes and inconsistencies.
SHARE FEELINGS NOT FUNDS
The last and most important recommendation the bank issued is to never send money or gifts to people you have not met in person.
Instead, opt to share how you feel about the person instead.
“If they’re asking you to share your feelings and your finances, it’s likely that you’ve been poisoned by a false Cupid’s arrow,” Citibank cautioned.
