The Economic and Organised Crime Office EOCO and the Cyber Security Authority CSA are alerting Ghanaians to the dangers of romance scams. These scams often start online where fraudsters build quick trust with victims.
Scammers typically try to move conversations off dating apps or social media platforms quickly. This makes it harder for authorities to track their activities.
Once trust is established, the fraudsters begin to target the victim's finances. They may ask for money for emergencies or other fabricated needs.
In some cases, scammers may also try to obtain compromising images or videos from victims. These can be used for blackmail later.
EOCO and the CSA have outlined several red flags for the public to watch for. These include someone professing love very quickly or asking for money early in the relationship.
Other signs include refusing to meet in person or via video calls, and having inconsistent stories about their lives.
Authorities advise anyone who believes they are being targeted or has fallen victim to report it immediately to the police or the relevant agencies.
These scams can cause significant financial and emotional distress to those affected.