If someone is asking you for money, there are several warning signs that can help you identify a scam, no matter where you are in the world.
Common signs of a money scam
- They ask for money very early in your relationship.
- They create a sense of urgency, saying you must send money immediately.
- They have a dramatic story involving a medical emergency, travel problem, legal trouble, or frozen bank account.
- They ask you to keep the request secret from friends or family.
- They refuse to meet in person or avoid video calls if it’s practical for your situation.
- They make excuses whenever you ask for proof of their identity or situation.
- They ask you to send money through methods that are difficult to reverse, such as cryptocurrency, gift cards, wire transfers, or money transfer services.
- They promise to repay you quickly but never do.
- They ask you to receive or transfer money on their behalf. This could make you part of a money laundering scheme.
- They become angry, manipulative, or guilt-trip you if you hesitate or ask questions.
Questions to ask yourself
- Have I independently verified who this person is?
- Can they provide evidence that matches their story?
- Why are they asking me instead of family, friends, an employer, or a bank?
- Am I feeling pressured to act before I have time to think?
- Would I advise a friend to send money in the same situation?
What a legitimate person usually does
A genuine person who needs financial help will generally:
- Understand if you need time to think.
- Be willing to answer reasonable questions.
- Accept “no” without threatening or manipulating you.
- Provide verifiable information if appropriate.
What you should do
- Don’t send money until you’ve verified the person’s identity and story.
- Talk to someone you trust before making a payment.
- Be especially cautious if you’ve only met the person online.
- If you’ve already sent money and suspect a scam, contact your bank or payment provider immediately. The sooner you report it, the better the chance of limiting the loss.
A simple rule
If someone you don’t know well is asking you for money while pressuring you, appealing to your emotions, or asking you to use unusual payment methods, treat it as a scam until you can independently prove otherwise. It’s much safer to delay sending money than to risk losing it.
