The person I am dating online says they work on an oil rig or a ship. Is that a red flag?
The job itself is not proof of anything, but it is one of the most common cover stories in romance scams. It explains why the person cannot meet, cannot video call and suddenly needs money for fees or equipment.
The story usually builds up to a payment: a contract that needs a fee to release, a broken part they must buy, customs charges for their luggage, or a flight home that only you can pay for.
Someone who really works offshore can still do a short video call when they have signal. A long run of excuses is the real warning sign.
How to check the story
- Ask which company and which vessel or rig, then look up the company yourself.
- Search for their photos online: uniform and work photos are often copied.
- Ask for a short video call at a time that suits their shift.
- Never pay fees, customs charges or equipment costs for someone you have not met.
Frequently asked questions
- They sent a photo of their work ID. Does that prove it?
- No. Work IDs and contracts are easy to fake or copy. Do not treat a photo of a document as proof.
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