Dating apps and social media have made it easier to meet new people, but they have also given scammers a new way to play with trust. A love scam can begin with a friendly message, a few late-night conversations and someone who seems unusually interested in your life. That is what makes love scams so difficult to spot.

What is a love scam?

A love scam happens when someone creates a fake romantic relationship to gain your trust and take your money. Scammers may use stolen photos, fake names and made-up stories on dating apps, social media or messaging platforms.

After building a connection over time, they may claim to have an emergency, such as financial problems, travel issues, medical bills or immigration concerns. Some may also try to persuade you to invest in a “great” opportunity, often involving cryptocurrency.

7 Signs of a Love Scam

1. They become romantically intense very quickly

Someone you have just met may start calling you “babe”, “darling” or even “the love of my life” within a short time. They may send constant messages and make big promises before you have met in person.

2. They always have an excuse to avoid meeting

A scammer may claim to be working overseas, serving in the military or dealing with an emergency that prevents them from meeting you. They may also avoid video calls or appear briefly before ending the call.

3. They ask for money, gift cards or personal banking details

This is one of the clearest warning signs. The request may be framed as a temporary loan, help with hospital bills, travel costs, customs fees or a family emergency. They may also ask for gift cards, cryptocurrency transfers or access to your bank account.

4. Their problem always sounds urgent

Love scammers often create pressure by saying they need help immediately. They may insist that something terrible will happen if you do not transfer money within the hour.

5. They introduce a suspicious investment opportunity

Some scammers wait until they have gained your trust before talking about investments. They may say they have insider knowledge or promise that you can make quick profits through a private trading platform.

6. Their stories do not quite add up

Pay attention to small inconsistencies in their stories about their job, location, family, or daily routine. Their photos may also look overly polished, appear on multiple profiles, or belong to someone else. A reverse image search can help, but scammers may use stolen, AI-generated, or fake-profile images.

7. They ask you to keep the relationship secret

A scammer may discourage you from telling friends or family about the relationship. They might say other people will not understand or are trying to ruin your happiness.

What should you do if you suspect a love scam?

• Stop sending money or sharing personal information.
• Save screenshots, messages, phone numbers and payment records.
• Contact your bank immediately if you have transferred money.
• Report the scam to the Singapore Police Force.
• Call the 24/7 ScamShield Helpline at 1799 if you are unsure what to do.
• Tell someone you trust. Feeling embarrassed is normal, but staying silent may give the scammer more time to target you.

Beware of Scammers Online

A love scam may feel like romance, but genuine connections should never involve pressure, secrecy or urgent requests for money. Take things slowly and trust your instincts. If the relationship feels too perfect, rushed or suspicious, ask yourself: Is this love—or is someone taking advantage of my trust?