Someone I met online is asking me for money. Is this safe?
Learn what to do if an online love interest asks for money.
A person you know only online may use a caring story to ask for money. This is a known romance-scam pattern.
Do not send money or gifts to an online love interest you have not met. Photos and calls do not prove the story.
You can stop the chat and ask someone you trust for help. You do not need to handle the pressure alone.
Try this
- Pause the conversation and do not pay.
- Keep passwords, codes, and bank details private.
- Talk with someone you trust outside the chat.
- Report a suspicious profile to the app.
- If you paid, contact your bank or payment provider promptly and ask for help.
A message you can copy
Explain common warning signs of a romance scam. Use a made-up example, with no real names or messages.
Paste the message into ChatGPT, then fill in any blanks before you send it. ChatGPT opens in a new tab. Opening it does not send the message.
Buddy says
Save evidence if you need to report a loss. No one can promise that the money will be recovered.