How do I recognise a romance scam?
Romance scammers create fake profiles on Facebook, dating apps, or even by text, pretending to be attractive, successful people — often claiming to be widowed, working overseas (military, oil rig, medical mission), or otherwise unable to meet. They spend weeks or months building trust and genuine emotional connection before ever asking for money. When the request comes, it is always urgent — a medical emergency, a stuck shipment, a travel expense to come meet you. These requests escalate until the victim runs out of money. If someone you have only met online asks you for money in any form — gift cards, wire transfer, cryptocurrency — that is a romance scam. Real people who care about you do not ask for money before meeting in person.
What to do
- Be cautious of online contacts who seem too perfect — attractive, successful, and immediately interested in you.
- Watch for claims of being overseas (military, oil rig, doctor on mission) and unable to meet.
- Note if they avoid video calls, or their video appears pre-recorded and not responsive.
- A request for money in any form — for any reason — from an online-only contact is always a scam.
- Run their profile photo through Google Images reverse search to see if it is stolen from someone else.
- Tell a trusted friend or family member if you are getting close to someone you met online.
The 3-Second Rule
No one who genuinely cares about you will ask for money before meeting you in person. Full stop. There are no exceptions.
Important Warning
Romance scams cause more financial loss than any other type of scam in Canada. They also cause deep emotional harm. If you think you are in a romance scam, call the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre: 1-888-495-8501.
Learn More
Go deeper with our full lesson: Module 2: The Security Shield.