Montgomery, AL – Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall is encouraging residents to exercise extreme caution when using online dating platforms, warning that scammers are increasingly targeting individuals seeking relationships.
In a statement issued this week, Marshall cautioned that not everyone behind an online profile has genuine intentions.
“Behind the screen is often not a soulmate, but a scammer,” Marshall said. “These predators play the long game, building emotional trust only to drain bank accounts and vanish without a trace. By the time victims realize the truth, the money is usually unrecoverable. If something feels wrong, trust your instincts and call our office right away. Acting quickly can make all the difference.”
A romance scam occurs when an individual creates a fake identity online and poses as a romantic partner. Scammers typically work to establish emotional trust over time before requesting money or sensitive personal information. Common tactics include fabricated emergencies, requests for travel funds to arrange an in-person meeting, or other urgent financial needs.
According to the Attorney General’s Office, victims are often reluctant to report romance scams due to embarrassment or emotional distress, which can allow scammers to continue targeting others.
To help residents identify and avoid potential scams, Marshall’s office recommends:
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Never send money to someone you have only communicated with online or over the phone.
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Do not share passwords, banking information, or other sensitive financial details.
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Be cautious of individuals claiming to be celebrities seeking financial assistance.
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Conduct a reverse image search of profile photos to determine whether images have been reused or are associated with other identities.
Residents who suspect they may be the target of a scam are encouraged to contact the Alabama Attorney General’s Office at 1-800-392-5658 or visit AlabamaAG.gov. Additional information about romance scams is available through the Federal Trade Commission at ftc.gov/romancescams. Reports may also be filed at ReportFraud.ftc.gov or through the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at ic3.gov.
State officials continue to urge Alabamians to remain vigilant when forming online relationships and to report suspicious activity promptly.
