As we increasingly go online in search of meaningful relationships, scammers are following suit. Here’s how to stay safe from romance scams online. What to look out for: Romance scammers try to take advantage of those looking for relationships online, exploiting the human need for connection and lying about their identity to steal money and information. These scammers will seem genuine, caring, and believable. While the tactics continue to evolve, their main goal is to manipulate to gain your trust. People of all ages can fall victim to romance scams, however older Americans may be particularly vulnerable and targeted. Common red flags: Claims they live, work or are traveling abroad. Romance scammers often have excuses for why they can’t meet you. Very quickly professes love to you, has a story that is inconsistent and has a minimal online presence. The person seems too perfect. Scammers will most likely study your online profiles to figure out what you’d like most in a partner. They can use AI to create photos of your ideal match. Mentions the idea of meeting and being together soon, without ever making concrete plans. Requests to have conversations/texts be moved to a separate app (e.g., WhatsApp, Telegram). They ask for strange methods of payment including gift cards, cryptocurrency or wire transfer. They need money urgently. Romance scammers may say they need money for medical expenses, unexpected legal fees, plane tickets to see you or any number of reasons that force you to act NOW. Is combative with you or tries to divert your attention when you question their intentions. How to protect yourself: Be careful what you post and make public online. Scammers can use details shared on social media and dating sites to better understand and target you. Take it slowly. Ask this person a lot of questions, and watch for inconsistencies in their story. Research the person’s photo and profile using online searches to see if the image, name, or details have been used elsewhere. Remember: You should never send money or personal information to someone you don’t know through the internet or over the phone. If your credit union or bank contacts you to express concern you are being victimized, this is perhaps the most significant red flag that you are being targeted. If you think that you’ve encountered a romance scammer, you should block that person and report them to the dating app or social media site. If you believe you are the victim of a romance scam, don’t hesitate to contact Good Neighbors at 716-681-1460 and report the scam with the Federal Trade Commission at 1-877-382-4357 or www.reportfraud.ftc.gov.