How to Spot a Military Scammer: Red Flags and Prevention

Online scams are rampant, and military romance scammers are one of the most prevalent types. If you suspect you're chatting with a military scammer, there are some red flags you can watch out for. In this article, we will guide you through the process of identifying a military scammer and provide tips on how to stay safe while online.

Education is Key

The first step is to educate yourself about the red flags that come with online romance scams. Read up on posts written by victims and potential victims of romance scammers. Understanding the common tactics used by these fraudsters can help you stay alert and avoid falling victim to these schemes. For instance, a scammer might appear sincere and even create a sense of urgency, making you believe their story.

Signature Red Flags of Military Scammers

Unsolicited Romance on App-based Platforms: If you met someone on Tinder, for example, and they pushed you to the app, it's a red flag. Scammers often use these platforms to their advantage. They might tell a fabricated story about a deceased spouse, a divorce, or children left with relatives. Overly Personal Early on: Military scammers are known to rush into relationships, claiming deep feelings early on. They might ask you to share personal details or financial information prematurely, which can be a warning sign. Unverifiable Claims: Scammers often avoid giving specific military details or providing verifiable photo evidence. This can include details about their current station, uniform, or personal life. If the information they provide doesn't match up when you do a quick fact-check, it could be a scam. Requests for Money: Any request for financial help, especially from someone you don't know, should be met with extreme caution. Scammers might ask you to open a bank account in your name for them to cash a phony check, or they might claim to need money for emergencies, special equipment, or housing moves. These are all common ploys used by scammers. Inconsistent Communication: Scammers often use poor grammar and make excuses for not communicating via phone calls. They might also delay or avoid direct communication, favoring text messages or social media. Generic or Fake Photos: They might send you generic military photos or photos that appear staged. Professional photos of military personnel are usually available online. If you find the same photo being used by someone else or it looks unrealistically staged, it could be a red flag. Attention to Email Address: Legitimate military email addresses generally end with .mil. If the address provided doesn't end with .mil, it's likely that you're dealing with a scammer.

Tips for Protection

Report Suspicious Behavior: If you suspect a scam, report it to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) through their website or contact local authorities. Reporting potential scams can help others avoid falling victim. Support Our Soldiers with Legitimate Ways: Instead of sending money, support our soldiers by writing thank you notes or donating to legitimate military causes. Any interaction with unfamiliar people, especially those asking for financial help, should be approached with extreme caution.

Military scammers use various tactics to target unsuspecting individuals online. By being aware of the red flags and following the tips provided in this article, you can significantly reduce the risk of encountering a military scammer and keep yourself safe and secure.