Romance scams have seen dramatic growth in recent years. Over $1.3 billion was lost to such fraud in 2024 alone – a nearly 80% increase from 2020. As an entrepreneur dedicated to helping small business owners succeed, I want to provide actionable insights on how to spot and stop these scams.
Key Stats on Romance Scam Prevalence
- 55,000+ romance scam victims reported in 2021 [1]
- $1.3 billion reported losses in 2024 [2]
- 52% higher scam risk on Valentine‘s Day [3]
- Reports from over-65s exceeded 49,000 in 2024 [4]
Many entrepreneurs and small business owners are among those being targeted. As leaders, we often have more assets and financial resources to exploit. Let‘s explore why scammers are having so much success and key techniques you can use to detect and stop these scams.
Who is Most at Risk from Romance Scams?
While anyone can fall prey, three groups face the most risk:
1. Women Business Owners
- 50.3% of romance scam victims are women [5]
- Scammers know they actively seek loving relationships and companionship
- The empathy and trust women entrepreneurs exhibit also make them prime targets
2. Middle-Aged and Elderly Business Leaders
- 55-64 age bracket reports the most romance scams [6]
- Preying on lonely elders with fake affection is common
- Your age and presumed assets identify you as an ideal victim
3. Previously Scammed Business Owners
- Prior victims tend to get targeted again
- Scammers may already have some of your information
- Desperation to recover losses can lead to re-victimization
Knowing these high-risk groups is key to being vigilant about potential scams.
Red Flags: How to Spot Romance Scammers
While scammer tactics vary, some common red flags can help identify and stop frauds early:
- Love bombing: excessive flattery and affection right away
- Refusing to meet: vague excuses why they can‘t meet you in person
- Sob stories: tales of health problems, legal troubles, or family crises
- Requests for money: often starts small, then increases over time
- Poor grammar/spelling: many scammers operate internationally
- Inconsistencies: odd mix of details that don‘t quite match up
Spotting one or more of these signs should make you wary about pursuing things further. Apply extra scrutiny going forward or cut off contact entirely.
Protecting Your Business and Assets
As a business leader, you have financial and proprietary information romance scammers may attempt to access once they gain your trust. Here are key steps you can take:
🔒 Maintain strong cybersecurity protocols for company networks and devices, keeping software updated and enabling two-factor authentication wherever possible. Don‘t allow new romantic interests access.
📁 Backup key data and keep copies physically secure. Destroy media thoroughly once replaced.
📲 Use device passwords/biometrics so phones and tablets lock when unattended. Never save banking passwords or allow open access.
🌐 Beware any links, attachments or requests to "verify" sensitive info online. Double check web addresses for subtle typos or misspellings.
The potential business impacts of romance fraud go well beyond direct financial losses. Scammers can leverage personal information to compromise company assets down the road. Remaining vigilant is crucial – for both you and your organization.
The Bottom Line
Romance scams can be devastating, and entrepreneurs often have the most to lose. Knowing the risk factors, red flags, and best practices are key to keeping yourself and your business protected. Always think carefully before sharing any sensitive details – no matter how persuasive the suitor. Prioritize sound judgment over emotional vulnerability. Your personal and professional well-being may depend on it.
