Romance/Investment Scams
What it is (1-liner)
A long-con: a "relationship" built online that steers you into fake crypto/investments, then drains your money.
Red flags (top 5)
"Wrong-number" hello → fast move to WhatsApp/Telegram.
Can't video chat; photos look model-perfect/reused.
"I can teach you to invest" or "my uncle is a trader"—push to a specific app/site.
Screenshots of huge "profits," pressure to deposit more or pay "tax/unlock fees."
Requests for crypto, gift cards, or wires. Nobody legit asks for those.
Do this now (60-second checklist)
Stop all transfers. Don't pay "taxes," "fees," or "unlock" charges.
Contact your bank/issuer/exchange immediately and ask to freeze/trace if possible. Then file IC3 and FTC ReportFraud.
Save evidence: profiles, handles, wallet addresses, transaction IDs, messages, and screenshots.
Tell a trusted person and set a 24-hour check-in. (Isolation increases risk.)
Report & takedown
Federal: File with FBI IC3 (internet crime) and FTC ReportFraud.
Crypto sent? Contact your exchange and include wallet TXIDs in the IC3 report; exchanges and law enforcement increasingly coordinate on freezes.
On-platform: Report the profile in-app (e.g., Tinder/Facebook Dating).
Mental health & immediate safety
This is engineered manipulation—not a personal failure. If panic or self-harm thoughts hit, Call/Text 988 or start a 988 chat (24/7).
Scripts you can copy
To the scammer: "I will not invest or send more. I'm saving messages and reporting to law enforcement and the app."
To your bank/exchange: "Funds were sent to a fraudulent investment scheme. Here are TXIDs/wallets. Please freeze/trace and advise next steps."
To friends/family: "If you get messages about investments from 'me' or a new partner, assume scam—call me first."
Lock down & recover (quick steps)
Change passwords on email/exchanges; enable 2FA/passkeys.
Watch for new withdrawal addresses, API keys, or new devices; revoke unknown access.
If you shared ID docs, consider credit freezes with Equifax/Experian/TransUnion.
Platform-specific steps
Tinder: Use in-app Report (profile → … or shield icon) for romance/investment fraud.
Facebook Dating: Open the Dating profile → Options → Report.
Printable Quick Card (1-page content)
Don't send more. Don't pay "fees/taxes." Bank/issuer/exchange now → IC3 + ReportFraud → Save profiles, wallets, TXIDs → Turn on 2FA/passkeys.
FAQs
Why do they refuse video calls? Many use stolen images or deepfakes; avoiding real-time video keeps the illusion.
Can I get money back? Sometimes—move fast with bank/issuer/exchange and provide TXIDs.
Is "pig-butchering" the official term? Law enforcement uses "romance-investment"/"crypto investment fraud"; some agencies discourage the slang to reduce stigma.
How big is this? IC3 2024 losses: $16B+ (+33% YoY) across all internet crimes; investment fraud is a leading driver.
Last updated: Sept 28, 2025 • Reviewed by: ZoraSafe Safety Team