The Romance-Based Investment Scam is a combination form of romance scams and investment scams. It starts with scammers building a relationship with their victims. The scam typically unfolds over several weeks or months, during which the scammers gain the victim's trust gradually and convince them to invest in what appear to be lucrative investment platforms. Once the victims are sufficiently manipulated, the scammers "slaughter" them by stealing all their money.
Here’s how a Romance-Based Investment Scam plays out:
Scammers use social media, dating apps, or "wrong number" texts with flirtatious messages and attractive profiles to start conversations.
Scammers maintain frequent contact to build trust and create a close relationship with the victim over time.
After gaining trust, scammers introduce fake investment opportunities, promising high returns through their insider information or family connections.
The scammers then persuade the victim to use specific trading app or website, and proposes to trade together, showcasing how easy it is to earn profits. Unbeknownst to the victim, this app is a fraudulent platform controlled by a network of scammers.
Scammers manipulate the fake platform to show profits, encouraging victims to invest more. When victims try to withdraw funds, they face excuses or demands for large fees and taxes to access their funds.
Things to keep in mind:
Caution with Unexpected Messages: Be careful with messages from unknown numbers or social media accounts.
Refuse-To-Meet Cautions: If someone avoids meeting in person or having a video call, it may indicate they are not who they claim to be.
Too-good-to-be-true Investments: Beware of claims offering high returns with little risk. If an opportunity sounds excessively promising, it's likely a warning sign.
Romantic Advances and Financial Requests: Be wary of strangers online who quickly express romantic interest and then ask for money.
Protection of Personal Information: Refrain from sharing sensitive information such as bank details with unverified individuals.
Skepticism with Investment Platforms: Exercise caution when considering online investment platforms or mobile apps recommended by strangers.
Rest assured that CelcomDigi is actively taking measures to ensure our customers do not fall prey to such scams.