Birds are chirping, flowers are blooming and spring is finally here. It’s the season of fresh starts and new beginnings – maybe even new relationships for those looking for love.
But as more people turn to online dating, fraudsters are taking advantage of the desire for connection.
According to recent research, 1 in 7 American adults (15%) say they’ve lost money to an online dating or romance scam. While adults of all ages can be a victim, those between ages 35 to 44 were most likely to report larger losses over $5,000.
How can you protect your heart (and wallet) this spring? Keep these quick tips in mind:
Fraudsters are skilled at what they do, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools are making it easier for them to create phony dating profiles, well-written messages and realistic-looking images and videos.
The key to avoiding any type of fraud is to stay vigilant. Take new relationships slow, verify before trusting and don’t let anyone pressure you into sharing sensitive information online.
If you find yourself in a romance scam, Wright-Patt Credit Union® (WPCU®) is here to help without judgment. We’ll help you secure your accounts and take the next steps to report fraud.
Remember: WPCU will NEVER text, call or email you asking for your password, PIN or personal/account information. Only scammers do this!
Think you may be a victim of fraud? WPCU is here to help. Call the Member Help Center at (800) 762-0047 right away or visit your nearest Member Center.
Looking for more tips? Check out our Fraud Prevention page . We’re With You!