Worldwide, Nearly 1 in 4 People Targeted by Online Romance Scams

Fraudsters use AI and fake profiles to trick victims, often costing them thousands of dollars

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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A new report reveals that romance scams are one of the fastest-growing and most devastating types of online fraud, with Americans losing over $1 billion to these schemes in 2023 alone. Scammers often use fake profiles and AI-generated images to build trust and emotional dependence with victims, before asking for money or gifts. Adults over 60 are hit the hardest, with the average victim losing $83,000.

Why it matters

Romance scams are a major threat, especially for older adults who may be more vulnerable. These scams can have devastating financial and emotional impacts on victims. Understanding the warning signs and taking steps to protect oneself is crucial to avoid falling prey to these sophisticated schemes.

The details

Scammers often move slowly, building trust and emotional dependence over months before asking for money. Red flags include the person trying to isolate the victim from friends and family, being in constant contact, living far away and unable to meet in person, offering investment opportunities, or claiming an emergency need for money. Experts advise slowing down, not oversharing personal information, keeping accounts private, and consulting trusted loved ones about new online relationships.

  • In 2023 alone, Americans lost more than $1 billion to romance scams.

The players

Federal Trade Commission

A federal agency that investigates and provides guidance on consumer protection issues, including romance scams.

FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center

A partnership between the FBI and the National White Collar Crime Center that allows victims to report internet-enabled crimes.

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What’s next

Victims of romance scams are advised to notify the dating or social media site where they met the scammer, report the incident to local law enforcement, and file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission and the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center.

The takeaway

Romance scams are a growing threat that can have devastating financial and emotional consequences, especially for older adults. By being aware of the warning signs, keeping personal information private, and consulting trusted loved ones, individuals can better protect themselves from falling victim to these sophisticated schemes.