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Ahead of what is known as one of the most romantic days of the year, the US Postal Service and the US Postal Service are warning the public to be vigilant against romance scams.
Romance scammers usually use stolen photos and manufactured personal information to create fake identities to establish online relationships. These con artists often invest weeks or months in professing their love early on and building trust with their victims. Once bonds are formed, they begin to request money through cash transfers, checks, gift cards or wire payments. The victims are heartbroken and financially devastated.
“Protecting the sanctity and integrity of mail is our number one priority,” said Gary Barksdale, Chief Postal Inspector at USPIS. “This includes protecting customers from email-related crimes, such as fraudulent schemes such as romance fraud. In stopping these offenders before they do anything harm, the public is in the process of stopping them. It is important to be aware of this.”
USPS and USPI provide the following tips to help the public stay safe:
Beware of online relationships that escalate quickly, especially if individuals are avoiding video calls or face-to-face meetings. Beware of discrepancies in personal details and protect your own personal information. Never send any kind of money, checks, or gifts to someone you have never met in person. Be careful if someone is urgently putting pressure on you for financial compensation. If you suspect fraud, cut off all communications and report them to the authorities.
For more information, please visit this website.
Postal services are actively sought to raise awareness among civilians through social media campaigns, fraud prevention webinars and educational events. The agency is also highlighting known romance fraud cases to prevent future victims from defeating prey in similar schemes.
For additional information, USPS will provide a podcast called “Mailin ‘It!” This highlights actual fraud cases. USPIS also offers an online resource centre with tips on recognition and avoiding fraud.
If you or someone you know is targeted by a scammer, please report it to USPI through this website and notify your local law enforcement agency. Victims are also encouraged to submit reports to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) here to prevent further fraud.
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