Scam

If you have been befriended online by an attractive person – usually foreign – who then tells a tale of falling into trouble or on hard times, this is probably an Internet love scam. The scammer persists with their story to gain their victim's adoration and trust, then asks for money as proof of love. Once the money is transferred, the scammer disappears.

WHAT TO LOOK OUT FOR

• Be careful when befriending strangers online. Know the the tell-tale signs of a fake dating profile: poor grammar that doesn't gel with their level of education, or using a fake photo sourced from the Internet are just a couple of warning signs
• Scammers prey on emotions to lull victims into believing their friendship is genuine; be wary of people who shower you with loving words and profess strong feelings for you even before you have even met
• Do not respond hastily to any requests of money, even if they sound desperate or troubled

HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF

• Do not send money to people you do not know well, especially if you have not met in person
• Be in control of your emotions and meet all requests for money with a cool head, knowing that it could be a scam
• Do not reveal too much about yourself, particularly in the form of photos or videos, to prevent you from being blackmailed later on
• Contact the Police immediately if you receive any message or call from someone claiming to be in trouble overseas and urgently needs you to send money
• Inform the Police is anyone tries to extort money from you

Source: Scam Alert Singapore