I think my mother or father is being scammed by someone online. How can I help?
Stay calm and do not mock or blame. Ask questions, look at the profile together and check the photos and the number. The goal is to stop the money, not to win the argument.
People in a romance scam often defend the person strongly, because the feelings are real even when the person is not. Pressure can push them closer to the scammer.
A neutral check that shows the same photos under another name is often more convincing than any argument.
How to help
- Ask how they met and what the person has asked for.
- Search the photos together with Google Lens.
- Agree on one rule: no money, airtime or gift cards to someone not met in person.
- Ask their bank about extra protection on transfers if they agree.
- If money has gone, help them report it.
Frequently asked questions
- They refuse to believe it is a scam. What now?
- Keep the door open and stay in contact. Many people see it later, especially when new demands for money appear.
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