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Once you do this, they will send money to and from your account, to other accounts. They may even buy gift cards, or add money to internet accounts they are the recipient of.

Many times, money launderers will send money to victims' accounts who are falling for the same scam you are! They want a complicated paper trail to reduce suspicion with the Feds.

How to Protect Yourself from Romance Scams

If you are concerned that you've been conned as a money mule, you aren't alone. Just how prevalent are confidence and romance scams? Ask the 18,000 people who filed with the FBI. complaints in 2018 and lost more than $362 million!

Be aware that these romance scams can begin when you are using a website or app for dating, playing a game, or connecting with others through social media. A cyber actor doesn't care where they find you online, as long as you're an excellent candidate to launder money.

How Does the FBI Get All of This Data on Romance Scams?

The IC3 or Internet Crime Complaint Center is a specialized division of the FBI. that is geared toward investigating and reporting the hottest criminal trends and most menacing online crimes. Their mission is to give the public a way to report suspected illegal internet activity conveniently and, subsequently, provide detailed, analyzed data to law enforcement and the public. As the central hub to receive and handle these severe criminal issues, their hope is education.

However, many people still don't want to tell others when they've been tricked. Don't be embarrassed if you've fallen for this type of scam, as it regularly happens to intelligent, savvy consumers. Take action and file a complaint with the IC3.

Staying safe online can happen with education and awareness. Worried about friends and family who online date or know someone you think was scammed? Share this article and keep them from falling for a cyber actor's newest con!