The person says they are a soldier or a UN worker abroad. Is it a scam?
Very often, yes. Scammers like to pose as soldiers, doctors, engineers or UN staff because it explains why they cannot meet or video call. The scam starts when they ask for fees, a parcel payment or help with leave.
The story is usually polished: a uniform photo, a mission far away, a child or late spouse. Then comes a request: money to "buy leave", fees for a box of gold or cash being shipped to you, or customs charges.
Real soldiers and UN staff do not need strangers to pay for their leave or their parcels.
How to check
- Run a reverse image search on their photos.
- Ask for a live video call, today.
- Never pay for leave, parcels, customs or a "diplomatic delivery".
- Check the name together with the word "scam".
Frequently asked questions
- They sent me a photo of their ID card. Is that enough?
- No. ID card photos are easy to copy or fake. Check whether the same photos appear under other names online.
Want to know if there are warning signs about the person you're chatting to? Veritaza checks the photos, the messages, the number, the email address, the name and the ID document, for USh 7,000.
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