Ontario Provincial Police Urge Caution as Fraudsters Target Lonely Hearts Online

OPP warns of online romance scams this Valentine’s Day, urging Ontarians to protect their money and privacy

OTTAWA, ON – With Valentine’s Day approaching, the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) is warning residents about the dangers of romance fraud, a growing crime that has cost Canadians over $58.4 million in 2024 alone. Many of these scams not only involve fake relationships but also lure victims into fraudulent cryptocurrency investment schemes, leading to even greater financial losses.

How Romance Scams Work

Fraudsters use fake profiles on dating sites, social media, and messaging apps to build trust with their victims. Once they establish an emotional connection, they begin making requests, often under the guise of an emergency or a lucrative investment opportunity. Common tactics include:

• Asking for money for travel, medical bills, or family emergencies
• Convincing victims to receive and transfer money, which could unknowingly involve them in money laundering
• Pushing fraudulent business ventures, such as opening bank accounts or registering a company
• Encouraging cryptocurrency investments, directing victims to deposit funds via crypto ATMs or online exchanges

Red Flags to Watch For

Be cautious if an online connection exhibits any of these warning signs:

• Professes love quickly despite never having met in person
• Pushes for private conversations outside of dating platforms
• Makes constant excuses to avoid video calls or in-person meetings, often claiming to work overseas
• Sends poorly worded messages or mistakenly addresses you with the wrong name
• Pressures you to send money by claiming an urgent crisis
• Discourages contact with friends or family, attempting to isolate you

Think Before You Share: The Dangers of Intimate Image Scams

Beyond financial fraud, intimate image scams are also on the rise.

Fraudsters manipulate victims into sharing explicit photos or videos, only to later threaten them with blackmail.

OPP strongly advises against sharing intimate images with anyone online, no matter how much trust has been built.

Once an image is sent, it can be used for extortion, public humiliation, or further fraud.

What to Do If You Suspect a Scam

If you believe you’re being targeted, take action immediately:

• Stop all contact with the individual
• Never send money or personal images to someone you’ve never met in person
• Report the fraud to the following authorities:
  • Your local police department
  • Ontario Provincial Police (OPP): 1-888-310-1122
  • Crime Stoppers (anonymous tips): 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or ontariocrimestoppers.ca
  • Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC): Online reporting or call 1-888-495-8501

Protect Yourself and Your Loved Ones

Romance scams don’t just impact individual victims—they can devastate families, drain savings, and cause emotional trauma. Stay vigilant, educate those around you, and remember: if it seems too good to be true, it probably is.