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Romance scams or sweetheart scams target not only vulnerable women but also men. The perception that only frail old ladies fall victim to these scams is incorrect.
Our most recent case is a 64-year-old widower who joined the dating site Tinder after feelings of loneliness made him want to reach out and meet a possible new partner.
The shared heartache immediately resonated with our client.
Kami convinced our client to "lend" her money to go to Turkey to finalise her late husband's estate.
Our client believed he was helping a "damsel in distress".
The perpetrator uses the alias Kamira (Kami) Sue Zhao.
According to her profile, she is Philippino.
Her contact number: +27 74 922 0706.
Our client started paying money to a Firstrand account.
Account number: 6281647665.
The account holder is Charmaine Hayes.
After hearing of Kami's numerous dilemmas, our client paid the sum of R115,425.00 into this account.
He then stopped paying money.
Later in the same year, Kami contacted our client again, asking for money to be paid into another FNB account:
Account number: 62804432186 in the name of Cornelia Bronner.
Fortunately, our client did not pay any money into this account.
It is clear that these perpetrators have no conscience and would pursue their victims relentlessly even after they have stopped paying.
Both men and women on dating platforms like Tinder can be particularly vulnerable due to their emotional state and the challenges they face in adjusting to dating after losing a partner. Scammers and ill-intentioned individuals often exploit this vulnerability, using emotional manipulation, trust-building tactics, and financial deceit.
After experiencing the loss of a spouse, widows and widowers can be emotionally vulnerable and more prone to manipulation. Scammers frequently exploit this vulnerability by feigning comfort, empathy, and emotional connection.
Following such a loss, many individuals seek companionship and may hastily enter into relationships
without thoroughly vetting their online matches.
COMMON TACTICS USED BY SCAMMERS:
RUSHED ROMANTIC INTIMACY:
Scammers may overwhelm widowers with affection and attention early on, making them feel appreciated, understood, and desired. This is commonly called love bombing.
Scammers often create elaborate stories about personal hardship (e.g., medical emergencies, being stranded in a foreign country, business issues) to gain sympathy and, eventually, money.
They might express strong emotions early in the relationship, pushing for a fast-moving relationship that can cloud judgment.
FINANCIAL EXPLOITATION:
Once trust is established, scammers frequently ask for financial help, claiming emergencies or hardship.
People who are not financially savvy or have not dealt with such situations before might be persuaded to pay money to their newfound romantic interest to "rescue" them.
Scammers may ask victims to transfer money for them or even unwittingly involve them in illegal activities, such as money laundering.
IDENTITY THEFT AND CATFISHING:
Kami, and many like her, is a fake profile created by scammers who use fake identities or steal other people's pictures to create attractive profiles. Victims, especially those less familiar with online dating, might not recognise the warning signs.
Scammers can trick vulnerable people into providing sensitive personal information (e.g., banking details, addresses, ID numbers) that can be used for identity theft.
PSYCHOLOGICAL MANIPULATION:
Once a scammer has engaged a victim, they may use guilt or emotional blackmail, making the victim feel responsible for their well-being or for the relationship.
Some scammers may attempt to isolate their target, encouraging them to limit contact with friends and family who might raise concerns.
HOW TO PROTECT VULNERABLE LOVED ONES:
People new to online dating should be advised to take things slow, question the motives of people they meet online, and look out for warning signs of scams.
They should be encouraged to verify any claims a new online partner makes.
Google image searches, background checks, or even asking friends for their opinion can help.
They should be reminded not to share personal details too quickly and to be wary of money or financial assistance requests.
Dating platforms that prioritise user safety, verification processes, and reporting features can help minimise risks.
Having trusted friends or family members review messages or help vet potential matches can provide an extra layer of protection.
RED FLAGS:
If someone moves the relationship too quickly, constantly professing love or seeking to meet in person without genuine planning.
Scammers often avoid direct contact via video chats, preferring text or phone calls to maintain the illusion.
Pay attention to details that do not add up. Frequent changes in life stories or background can be a sign of deception.
The most significant red flag is when a match asks for money or financial assistance shortly after establishing contact.
If you believe you might be a victim or know someone who is, take immediate action.
STOP PAYING ANY MONEY.
Keep records of all communications, proof of payments, and any other relevant information.
Inform your bank about the situation, provide proof of payment, and discuss your concerns about potential fraud.
Report this to the South African Police Service (SAPS) or other relevant authorities who handle fraud cases.
Monitor your accounts closely for any suspicious activity and consider changing passwords
and other security measures.
It is critical to put all self-blame, guilt or shame aside and take action to stop the manipulation, extortion and financial ruin.
PREVIOUS WARNING PROJECTS POSTED BY SSS:
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Regards,
Mike Bolhuis
Specialist Investigators into
Serious Violent, Serious Economic Crimes & Serious Cybercrimes
PSIRA Reg. 1590364/421949
Mobile: +27 82 447 6116
E-mail: mike@mikebolhuis.co.za
Fax: 086 585 4924
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EXTREMELY IMPORTANT: All potential clients need to be aware that owing to the nature of our work as specialist investigators there are people who have been caught on the wrong side of the law - who are trying to discredit me - Mike Bolhuis and my organisation Specialised Security Services - to get themselves off the hook. This retaliation happens on social media and creates doubt about our integrity and ability. Doubt created on social media platforms is both unwarranted and untrue. We strongly recommend that you make up your minds concerning me and our organisation only after considering all the factual information - to the exclusion of hearsay and assumptions. Furthermore, you are welcome to address your concerns directly with me should you still be unsatisfied with your conclusions. While the internet provides a lot of valuable information, it is also a platform that distributes a lot of false information. The distribution of false information, fake news, slander and hate speech constitutes a crime that can be prosecuted by law. Your own research discretion and discernment are imperative when choosing what and what not to believe.
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