Cañon City police warn community of “love scams”
(CAÑON CITY, Colo.) — The Cañon City Police Department (CCPD) is once again warning the community to beware of scams, this time, of "love" or "romance" scams.
CCPD said it has been receiving "numerous" calls about potential fraudulent activity, with some people in the area falling prey to fake love interests or relationships.
"While a large number of Americans use dating sites, social networking sites, and chat rooms to meet people, unfortunately, scammers also use these sites to contact potential victims," wrote CCPD.
According to police, scammers create fake profiles on dating, social networking sites, or chat rooms to build online relationships with others and later convince them to send money 'in the name of love.'
"An online love interest who asks for money is almost certainly a scam artist," CCPD explained. "Be alert to anyone who asks for money – especially from abroad – for the purpose of coming to visit. These scammers can be very convincing and they know how to gain the confidence of their victims."
The scammers may also urge a person to not share information about them or the fact they have asked for money.
CCPD said if anyone is contacted by someone like this, to reach out to trusted people in their life and ask for their input.
"They would not want to see you hurt financially or emotionally," said CCPD. "Be on your guard about these types of criminals who take advantage of others!"
