Romance Scams on the Rise: How to Outsmart the Scammers in 2026
Looking for love online? Make sure you’re protecting your heart—and your hard-earned money.
While romance scams have been around since the early days of the internet, artificial intelligence (AI) and difficult-to-trace payment methods like cryptocurrency are making it easier for scammers to prey on unsuspecting victims. In 2024, nearly 59,000 Americans lost an estimated $697.3 million to scammers posing as online love interests.
How can you outsmart the scammers in 2026? Let’s walk through some ways to protect yourself:
Artificial Love: How AI Is Changing the Game
Before AI technology was widely available, many romance scams relied on stolen photos and poorly written messages to manipulate their victims.
Now, scammers can use AI to create content that looks and sounds remarkably real. Examples include:
- AI-generated photos or videos of someone who doesn’t exist
- Chatbots that write natural-sounding, thoughtful messages
- “Deepfake” videos or voice memos posing as a celebrity or public figure
It’s possible to create a phony digital identity that looks, sounds and feels trustworthy. So, how can you spot the scammer?
Watch for these warning signs:
- A stranger reaches out to you unexpectedly via social media, email or text
- Their photos look too perfect, overly polished or model-like
- They request to move the conversation off the dating app platform
- They “love bomb” you with excessive affection and compliments
- They ask you to send sensitive photos or videos
- They claim to be a famous celebrity, influencer or public figure
- They always have excuses for why they can’t meet up in person or join a video call
- They try to isolate you from family and friends
If something feels off, it probably is. Slow down and ask questions before acting.
Tip: When communicating via video call, ask your connection to do something in the moment, such as open the refrigerator or turn on the TV. If they can’t or won’t do it, you might not be talking to a “real” person.
Romance Red Flag: Payment Requests
Romance scammers want money, not love. Once they’ve earned their victims’ trust, they’ll often ask for money via hard-to-trace payment methods, like:
- Cryptocurrency (such as Bitcoin)
- Gift cards
- Wire transfers
- Peer-to-peer payment apps (Venmo, CashApp, etc.)
To create a sense of urgency, the scammer will invent a dramatic story. They may claim to have a medical or legal emergency or need money to visit you. They might even offer to teach you how to “invest” in cryptocurrency or help with a “business opportunity”.
Here’s the truth: If anyone is pressuring you to send money right away, pause and take a step back. Payment methods like cryptocurrency, gift cards and wire transfers are difficult (and sometimes impossible) to reverse, making them a major red flag.
Shame and Secrecy: How Scammers Succeed
Romance scams succeed because they’re underreported. Why? Victims often feel embarrassed and afraid to speak up. Scammers know how to manipulate emotions and keep their victims quiet by:
- Blackmailing victims with private messages, photos or videos
- Threatening to contact authorities, family members or employers
- Convincing victims that no one will understand or believe their story
Anyone can fall victim to a scam. Speaking up is brave, and it can help protect others from future scams.
At Wright-Patt Credit Union® (WPCU®), we’re here to help without judgment. As your caring financial partner, we’ll listen, guide you through your next steps and help you secure your accounts.
Remember: WPCU will NEVER text, call or email you asking for your password, PIN or personal/account information. This is something scammers do.
If you suspect fraud or notice something unusual on your WPCU accounts, call the Member Help Center at (800) 762-0047 right away or visit your nearest Member Center.
For more tips, visit our Fraud Prevention page. We’re With You!