Romance scams have become a considerable concern, particularly for seniors, as evidenced by a recent case in Provo, Utah. A man in his 70s fell victim to a sophisticated scam, losing over $186,000 over two years.
The scammer, posing as a woman from Maryland, built a relationship with the victim through emails and a single video call, which authorities suspect was AI-generated.
How the Scam Unfolded
The victim was promised a romantic relationship and was convinced the woman would move to Utah if he provided financial assistance.
Over time, he transferred money to multiple accounts via cash apps like PayPal. The scam only came to light when the victim’s son intervened and contacted the police.
The Broader Impact of Scams on Seniors
This case is part of a larger trend of scams targeting the elderly. According to the FBI, millions of seniors fall victim to scams annually, losing billions of dollars.
Common scams include impersonating law enforcement, utility companies, or even family members in distress.
Expert Advice on Avoiding Scams
Authorities recommend never sending money to someone you haven’t met in person and being cautious of unsolicited requests for financial assistance.
Provo police spokeswoman Janna-Lee Holland emphasized the importance of family members monitoring their elderly loved ones’ online activities to prevent such incidents.
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