Due to COVID-19, dating apps are experiencing a surge in users who are
being taken advantage of by cybercriminals to lure them into fraudulent investment “opportunities”.
Just recently, the International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol)
issued a “purple notice” to 194 member countries, outlining a specific
modus operandi on dating applications. The threat involves taking
advantage of people’s vulnerabilities as they look for potential matches,
and luring them into a sophisticated fraud scheme.
Scammers will try to establish trust between them and the victim, And will
slowly turn the conversation to finance and investment inviting their victim
to financial ventures.
“Victims download a trading app and open an account, buy various
financial products and work their way up a so-called investment chain, all
under the watchful eye of their new “friend”. They are made to believe they
can reach Gold or VIP status.” According to Interpol.
“Everything is made to look legitimate. Screenshots are provided, domain
names are eerily similar to real websites, and customer service agents
pretend to help victims choose the right products.” said by Interpol.
After scamming victims, All contact stops and victims are locked out of their
accounts.
Fraudsters prey upon the desire and the weakness of the human heart,
Vulnerable and gullible people being swindled out of their life savings by
individuals who appeared to be genuine love interests.
Many of us are using dating apps to meet new people or to find potential
partners, Let’s always remain cautious.
Here are some tips from Interpol to make sure online dating remains fun
and doesn’t empty your bank account:
• Always be vigilant when you are approached by someone you don’t
know, especially if it leads to a request for money;
• Be skeptical: online investments with promises of fast, amazing returns
are often too good to be true;
• Think twice before transferring money, however genuine the request
might seem;
• Do your research: check reviews, double-check the app, the domain
name, the email address, etc;
• Don’t disclose personal/confidential information;
• If you realize you’ve been the victim of a fraud, report it.
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