Berkeley County, SC – Residents using dating apps and social media are being urged to stay alert after the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office warned of a rise in romance scams as part of its ongoing “12 Days of Scam-mus” awareness campaign.
According to the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office, scammers are increasingly pretending to form romantic relationships online, only to exploit victims emotionally and financially. Authorities say these scams often begin with friendly conversations that quickly escalate into intense emotional connections.
Investigators warn that scammers typically move fast, expressing affection early and creating a sense of urgency. Once trust is built, victims may be asked to send money, gift cards, or share personal or financial information under the guise of emergencies, travel issues, or secret investments.
The Sheriff’s Office says common red flags include vague personal stories, inconsistencies in details, and repeated excuses for why the person cannot meet in person or video chat. Requests to keep the relationship secret or pressure to act quickly are also major warning signs.
Officials are reminding residents never to send money, cryptocurrency, or gift cards to someone they have only met online. Law enforcement also encourages people to verify identities independently and trust their instincts if something feels off.
Romance scams remain one of the most costly fraud schemes nationwide, with victims losing millions of dollars each year, according to federal consumer protection data. Local authorities say reporting suspicious activity quickly can help prevent others from becoming victims.
Anyone who believes they may be targeted by a scam is encouraged to stop communication immediately and report the incident to local law enforcement or the Federal Trade Commission.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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