Sweetheart scam warning

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by Tiffany Tarpley

Story Created: Feb 13, 2013

Story Updated: Feb 14, 2013

MILWAUKEE--A Wisconsin consumer protection agency is sending a warning to those looking for love online.

"Just as there are people who flock to these websites trying to find love there are scammers who flock to these websites trying to find easy victims," said Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection Senior Communications Specialist, Jerad Albracht.

 

Here are some red flags the agency warns you should watch out for from your new love interest:

  • Claims to be from the United States but is currently “traveling,” “deployed with the military,” or “working overseas”
  • Professes love for you almost instantly
  • Asks you to leave the dating site and communicate by personal email or instant messages
  • Requests that you send personal information including social security, bank account or credit card numbers
  • Asks you to cash checks for him/her
  • Makes excuses for not meeting in person, such as last-minute financial, medical or family emergencies
  • Asks you to send money by wire transfer to pay for airfare, visas or government documents or to help a family member in distress. Never wire money to someone you do not know or have not met in person. Wiring money is like sending cash – once it is gone, you cannot get it back.

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