Scammers typically create fake profiles on dating apps, social media, or matchmaking websites to lure victims. Here’s how they operate:

1. Building Trust: They use stolen photos and convincing stories to appear genuine. They often claim to be in the military, working overseas, or in a remote location.
2. Love Bombing: They quickly express deep feelings, sending affectionate messages, promising marriage, or discussing a future together.
3. Creating a Crisis: Once trust is established, the scammer fabricates an emergency, such as a medical issue, travel problem, or business trouble, and asks for money.
4. Disappearing Act: Once they receive the money, they vanish without a trace or continue making excuses to extract more funds.