Love Shouldn’t Lead to Loss: Romance Scams Are Breaking Hearts in Our Communities

What begins as a friendly message or a promising online connection can quietly turn into heartbreak — both emotional and financial. Romance scams are on the rise, and they are affecting people in our local communities every day.

At Better Business Bureau, we hear from victims who never imagined they could be deceived this way. Many are smart, cautious, and kind people who were simply looking for companionship. Scammers take advantage of that trust, often spending weeks or even months building what feels like a real relationship. They listen. They encourage. They make their victims feel seen.
Then comes the crisis — a sudden medical emergency, a business problem, a travel delay, or an urgent request for help. Money is asked for, often through gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency. By the time the truth comes out, victims are left not only with financial losses, but with deep emotional pain and embarrassment that can make it hard to speak up.
Romance scams don’t just impact individuals — they affect families, friendships, and entire communities. Seniors, young adults, widows, divorcees, and anyone using dating apps or social media can be targeted. No one is immune.
That’s why BBB is urging residents to learn the warning signs and talk openly with loved ones about online relationships. Awareness is one of the strongest tools we have to stop these scams before more damage is done.
If someone you care about is forming a relationship online — or if you are yourself — please take a moment to review BBB’s guidance on romance scams, how they work, and how to protect yourself.

👉 Learn more and spot the red flags:https://www.bbb.org/all/romance_scams

Love should never come with a price tag. If sharing this information helps even one neighbor avoid heartbreak, it’s worth the conversation. 💙