COLUMBUS, Ohio (WSYX) — Ohio officials are stepping in to help fight against romance scams.
Ohio Attorney General Andy Wilson announced Thursday a new initiative to help Ohioans “identify romance scams, ward off financial losses, encourage people to report suspected cases to authorities, and support victims,” according to a release.
Older adults are often targeted in romance scams. Fraudsters typically build a virtual relationship with their unassuming victims before they begin requesting money. This tactic allows scammers to build trust with the victim and potentially deplete their bank accounts.
It is not abnormal for many cases to go unreported because victims feel embarrassed or emotionally isolated and end up reluctant to seek help.
“No Ohioan should lose his or her life savings to someone pretending to care about them,” Wilson said in a statement. “These scammers are sophisticated, emotionally manipulative and, sadly, increasingly common.”
We’re giving families a place to turn when they suspect something isn’t right and providing law enforcement with valuable information to investigate these crimes.
A dedicated hotline has been created for individuals that may have fallen victim to a romance scam.
Experts will review the information in collaboration with forensic investigators representing the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI).
Educational resources and guidance will be available to help prevent additional financial losses and offer ways to stay protected.
“Many victims don’t realize or don’t want to believe they’re being manipulated – that’s how good many of these scammers are,” Wilson said. “Our goal is to help families intervene sooner and prevent their loved ones from becoming victims.”
Individuals who knows someone or feel they may be involved in a romance scam are encouraged to call the hotline at 1-855-961-SCAM.
For more information on romance scams click here.
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