A Romance Scam

February 25 — Romancing the Loan

Dimitri, where are you? It's been days. Is everything all right?

I'm here. Sorry I haven't been online. I've been dealing with a family emergency. Pieter's sick, and we had to take him to the hospital a couple of nights ago. He's going to need heart surgery. I was so happy when I saw your offer to come visit but now, I'm so, so sorry but we have to wait. He obviously can't work and we're falling behind at the shop. We've got plenty of orders, but I just don't have the manpower to fill them. I need to hire a few temps, but we've been dumping every penny we earn back into the shop, so there's just no money.

I'm so sorry to hear that, Dimitri. I hope Pete recovers quickly. I really wanted to come see you, but I totally understand your situation. I know it's tough now but your brother will be OK-you'll see-and the Print Shop will be a success once you get over this hurdle.

It kills me to ask this, but would you consider helping me out, just until Pete gets back on his feet? I need about $2,000 to catch up. I know that's a lot of money, but I wouldn't ask you if I wasn't desperate. Andrea, I'm desperate! You've always been so supportive because you remember what it was like when your business first got started.

I wish I could be there for you in person. I think I can loan you $2,000 on a short term basis. I know how overwhelming times like this can be. And I'm glad I'm in a position to help.

I'm so lucky to have found you. You're such a loving and generous person. And don't worry I'll pay you back soon, with interest! ChefAndrea: Don't worry about interest. Just pay me back as soon as you can. We're both lucky.

No matter the context (or the sob story!) requests for money are a huge warning sign. Dimitri has spent almost two months luring Andrea into his trap, but some online cons may wait even longer (gaining more of their victim's trust) before springing their traps. His request also carries a sense of urgency common in these scams.