Romance Scam Deep Dive

Romance scams — also called "pig butchering" — are the most financially devastating scam type globally, accounting for billions in losses annually. They combine emotional manipulation with financial fraud.

How It Starts

Contact typically arrives via dating apps, LinkedIn, Instagram, or a "wrong number" text. The scammer presents as an attractive, successful person — often a doctor, engineer, or international businessperson.

The Building Phase

For weeks or months, they invest in the relationship. Daily messages, voice notes, sometimes video calls (using deepfakes or pre-recorded content). They learn your vulnerabilities, your dreams, your financial situation. They never ask for money during this phase.

The Introduction

Eventually they "mention" a crypto investment platform they've been using. They show you their "returns." They offer to help you make money too. They guide you to deposit small amounts — which appear to generate real returns on the (fake) platform.

The Harvest

Once you've deposited a significant amount, withdrawal is suddenly blocked. A "tax," "fee," or "verification deposit" is required. No matter how much you pay, the money is never returned.

Protection Rules

• Never mix romance and investment with someone you've never met in person
• Reverse image search every profile photo
• Never use a financial platform recommended by someone you met online
• If withdrawal requires a fee, the platform is a scam