How one woman became a victim
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) reveals that in 2022, 70,000 people reported romance scams, with total losses of $1.3 billion. The FTC believes the figures are likely higher but these scams tend to be underreported because victims feel embarrassed..
The median reported loss was $4,400 — a significant sum, but nowhere close to the amount of money Powell lost.
What's even more unfortunate is that Powell had a sense that something wasn't right.
"Why would you be asking me for money?" Powell thought to herself when her online match first made his request.
Her would-be mate said he was in hospital and couldn't rely on family for support. He sent Powell a doctored picture of himself in a hospital bed to guilt her into sending money.
After she did, he kept in touch for months, texting her and repeatedly asking for cash. Powell eventually trusted her gut and cut off communications, realizing she’d been had.
“It was physically, psychologically, emotionally, just draining,” said Powell, who now has to work a second job as a fast-food delivery worker. “I curse him every time I’m out DoorDashing.”
Powell has started a GoFundMe to raise a little money for her cause and is sharing her story to reveal that it can happen to anybody, and help prevent others from falling for online romance scams.
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Learn MoreHow to protect yourself and pick up the pieces
Unfortunately, Powell broke the No. 1 rule of online dating: Never send money to someone you’ve never met. Block any so-called match asking for cash, gift cards, or any item of value.
The FTC notes that scammers often use sob stories to get victims to hand over cash.
Be on the lookout for anyone who claims to need funds because they’re sick, in jail, or in the military. It’s also wise to steer clear of people who claim to have knowledge about a lucrative investment and who encourage you to invest with them.
Recovering from a major emotional and financial loss like Powell's isn't easy. But there are steps you can take to move forward — and to prevent others from experiencing the same thing.
If you are the victim of an online romance scam, or suspect one, report it to the FTC.
If your credit score took a major hit, you’ll need a debt payoff plan to build your credit rating back up. Beware of credit repair scams that offer to instantly wipe out your bad credit score for a fee.
Set up a budget to gradually pay down debt and build up your savings. You can choose whatever budgeting method works for you: spreadsheet, pen and paper, or app.
A financial adviser can help you make better use of your paycheck so you can allocate money where it needs to go, whether toward savings, debt, or your retirement account.
You may want to look at debt consolidation. A legitimate debt relief company can assist you with a debt payoff plan and potential settlement.
Finally, don’t forget about your mental health. Falling for a scam — especially a romantic one — can take a toll on your well-being as much as your finances.
Don’t hesitate to seek the help of a therapist if you’re having a hard time coping with your current situation.
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