People do not need to be a victim to take action against criminals and defend those who cannot defend themselves. This is what relatives and friends of Russian romance scam victims have learned. For Russia PI investigators, it is very important to urge those who surround potential victims to help protect them.

Romance scams are rampant in online dating platforms, social media and even internet gaming websites. The victims are usually unaware of what happens, either because they ignore the risks or because they are too involved with the scammer to see the red flags. In most cases, romance scammers select the profile of their victim very well to have better chances of succeeding. Elderly people, widows and people who have recently divorced or lost a loved one are especially vulnerable to love scams, and scammers know it. But even though a potential victim may not be able to see the whole picture, their friends and family are more than capable of doing something about it, before it’s too late.

How can you help a friend or loved one avoid fraud?

The first step is to address the topic with a lot of caution. Nicholas Donkova, Director of Private Detectives at Russia PI explains that there are many cases in which the family is so frustrated about the situation that, despite their good intentions, they end up creating the opposite effect and make the victim get even closer to the scammer and turn against the family. This is not a desirable situation. Never assume as a fact that someone is being scammed without evidence. And don’t tell them it’s a fact unless you can prove it!

As mentioned before, victims are in many cases vulnerable people. On the other hand, no one wants to feel that they’re being treated like a fool. When people assume that a person is “out of someone else’s league”, or too old to have someone interested in them, they’re just being disrespectful. Many people find love online and there are no limits to age or conditions. Instead of accusing someone you don’t know of being a scammer, try explaining to your loved-one of the risks and offering possible solutions.

You can start by asking them more information about their relationship, showing interest about who this person is, what they do, etc. This will not only help them feel comfortable about sharing their situation with you, but it will also provide data about the subject that you might need later.  The more you know, the more investigators can verify.

Another important way to help is by sharing information related to romance scams in Russia. Love scams have become very sophisticated, sometimes by real people who meet their victims in person. You can find a lot of information about this topic in our blog and choose those you think are the best fit for your family member to read. Being aware of the risks is essential to take a step forward and verify.

The third important step is to get a dating background check in Russia. Some people do not know how to obtain the information they need, our who to ask for help. Put them in contact with a reputable investigation firm in Russia that can verify all the facts, and if necessary, offer them help to pay or find the funds for the investigation. Explain that a background check is just a way to help them remain safe, and if their date is on the up and up, then there is no reason to worry anymore. Reliable evidence can give anyone peace of mind, and that’s the main reason to hire a background check.  If conducted by a professional investigator, the background check investigation will be discreet and confidential, so the subject won’t learn about the investigation.  And most importantly, you will have solid evidence to protect yourself or your family member.

When possible, discuss the options together and ask for permission to speak to a reputable investigator.  Victims do not respond well at times when told they are a victim, and the person they have met is a fraud.  Getting evidence from a reliable, independent investigator is often what they need to see the light, and not be a victim.

Contact us if you need help with a family member.

C. Wright
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