Understanding Military Romance Scams: A Cloak of Deception

Have you ever received a message from someone claiming to be a U.S. soldier, describing a hypothetical scenario where they need assistance with a flight ticket? If so, it's time to be on your guard. This article aims to educate you about the strategies scammers use in military romance scams and how to protect yourself.

The Sign of a Scammer: Requesting Money for a Flight

Suspect the message is fraudulent if a so-called soldier asks to send you money for a flight ticket. For instance, the message might start with, "Boy you are REALLY good at finding those bargain seats! But since you are a member of the United States Military, can I PLEASE pay to upgrade you to first class. It's only a few thousand dollars more."

This is a red flag because:

Real U.S. military personnel do not pay for their own flights. It is against military regulations for personnel to ask civilians for money. The Army pays for all necessary travel expenses, including homecoming flights.

Indicators of a Falsely Identified Soldier

Always be suspicious if the person you are communicating with exhibits any of the following behaviors:

Asking for personal information such as your bank details. Insisting on payment for services they are supposed to be provided for, such as travel. Claiming to be on extended leave or on deployment and needing help with fees.

Furthermore, research the military procedures for travel and deployment. If someone claims to be deployed and has no plan for their return, it is highly likely they are a scammer.

Legitimate Military Travel Procedures

Real U.S. military personnel are well-versed in the financial procedures for travel. Here are some key points to consider:

Money for travel is typically prepaid by the military. Soldiers often receive their travel arrangements in advance, including lodging and transportation. It is extremely rare for active-duty personnel to need personal funding for travel or to ask civilians for financial assistance.

To avoid falling victim to a scam, always verify the authenticity of the person you are communicating with. Do a background check on their story and research common tactics used in military romance scams. Keep your personal information secure and only share it with verified individuals.

Conclusion: Stay Alert and Stay Safe

Remember, online scams are prevalent and can be sophisticated. Always be cautious when someone online asks for personal or financial information. Don't hesitate to report suspicious activity and seek advice from trusted sources such as official military channels or reputable security websites.

By staying informed and vigilant, you can protect yourself from becoming a victim of a military romance scam. If you've already fallen victim, do not panic. Seek help from local law enforcement and financial institutions to minimize the impact of the scam.