helpnetsecurity.com
· 2026-10-01
Employment scams more than tripled at 370+ financial institutions across 21 countries in the past 12 months, with a 258% increase outpacing all other fraud types. The scams predominantly occur on mobile devices and include various types such as investment schemes (averaging $6,600 per case), purchase fraud, and romance scams, with researchers identifying specific behavioral patterns like active phone calls and unusual payment recipients that banks can use to detect and prevent losses. The article also highlights organized scam operations globally, including compounds in Nigeria, and a particularly severe variant targeting minors through financial sextortion that has resulted in at least 36 documented U.S. teen suicides since 2021.
guardian.ng
· 2026-09-30
A Nigerian federal court ordered the forfeiture of 431 mobile phones linked to Chinese cyber-fraudsters to the Federal Government following a major fraud operation bust in Lagos. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission had arrested over 700 individuals (approximately 500 Nigerians, 148 Chinese, 40 Filipinos, and others) in a December 2024 sting operation targeting an elaborate scheme involving romance, dating, cryptocurrency, and investment scams that primarily victimized Americans, Canadians, Mexicans, and Europeans. The operation involved at least 500 laptops, 400 cell phones, and various telecommunications equipment used by foreign nationals and recruited Nigerian youths operating from a
thecable.ng
· 2026-09-29
A Lagos federal high court ordered the final forfeiture of 431 mobile phones to the Nigerian government that were seized from Chinese nationals arrested in December 2024 for operating cryptocurrency and romance scam networks from a Victoria Island building. The EFCC had arrested 792 suspects total—including 114 Chinese nationals, Filipinos, and others—who were allegedly training Nigerians to conduct romance and investment scams; digital assets worth $222,729 and thousands of other items including computers, SIM cards, and equipment were previously forfeited in the case.
punchng.com
· 2026-09-29
A Nigerian federal court ordered the permanent forfeiture of 431 mobile phones to the government that were seized from Chinese cyber-fraud operators and their accomplices. The phones were part of an elaborate international scam network operating in Lagos that conducted romance scams, cryptocurrency fraud, and investment swindles targeting victims in the U.S., Canada, Mexico, and Europe, with over N3.4 billion in fraud proceeds traced to the operation. A massive December 2024 sting operation arrested over 700 suspects involved in the scheme, including 148 Chinese nationals and 500 Nigerians, leading to convictions of the ringleader and his company on charges including cyber-terrorism and money laundering
guardian.ng
· 2026-09-28
Access Bank launched a financial crime awareness campaign called "Spot the Scam" targeting Nigerian students to educate them on identifying and avoiding fraud schemes, which commonly include fake giveaways, job offers, celebrity impersonation, and investment scams. The campaign, running through December 2026, was prompted by concerns about young Nigerians' involvement in financial crimes, including a December 2024 incident where 792 young people were arrested for romance scams, hacking, and money laundering targeting overseas victims. The initiative includes nationwide financial education and a debate competition for secondary schools in Lagos State to help young people avoid becoming victims or perpetrators of financial crimes.
yahoo.com
· 2026-09-24
Nigerian national Olamide Shanu pleaded guilty in federal court in Idaho to operating an international money laundering scheme involving sextortion and romance scams that targeted approximately 150 Americans and generated over $2.5 million in fraud proceeds. The scheme used fake social media identities to build relationships with victims and extort intimate images, with stolen funds laundered through peer-to-peer payment apps and cryptocurrency before being transferred to Nigeria. Shanu faces up to 20 years in prison at his December 15 sentencing.
saharareporters.com
· 2026-09-23
A 35-year-old Nigerian national, Olamide Shanu, pleaded guilty to money laundering conspiracy for his role in international sextortion and romance scam schemes that defrauded approximately 150 American victims and generated over $2.5 million in criminal proceeds. Shanu and his co-conspirators targeted male victims with sextortion threats using intimate images and older men and women through fake romantic identities on social media, laundering the proceeds through peer-to-peer payments and cryptocurrency before transferring funds to Nigeria. Shanu was extradited to the United States and pleaded guilty in Idaho federal court in September 2026 as part of the Department of Justice's
newsmobile.in
· 2026-09-23
A 35-year-old Nigerian national pleaded guilty to money laundering for operating an international cyber-fraud network that targeted approximately 150 Americans through sextortion and romance scams, generating over $2.5 million in illicit proceeds. The scheme used fake identities to build emotional relationships with victims or threatened to share intimate images unless money was paid, with stolen funds moved through peer-to-peer payment apps and cryptocurrency to Nigeria. Olamide Shanu faces up to 20 years in prison at sentencing scheduled for December 15, 2026.
thesun.ng
· 2026-09-18
Access Bank Plc launched a "Spot The Scam" financial crimes awareness campaign targeting teenagers aged 12-16 in Nigeria, prompted by rising cases of young people becoming victims or perpetrators of fraud including romance scams, hacking, and money laundering. The initiative, running until December 2026, combines financial crime education with a debate competition for secondary schools in Lagos State, teaching youth to recognize manipulation, question suspicious requests, and seek help when encountering fraudulent activities. The campaign addresses common fraud methods targeting young people such as fake giveaways, celebrity impersonation, fake job offers, and investment scams.
ewn.co.za
· 2026-09-18
Six Nigerian nationals were extradited to the U.S. to face charges in a romance scam that defrauded over 100 women of more than R100 million, with cybersecurity experts warning that AI technology now enables scammers to create convincing fake identities using deepfake photos, videos, and cloned voices. Victims often become emotionally invested in fraudulent relationships and are reluctant to report due to shame, though experts emphasize that reporting to police, banks, and platforms is crucial. Red flags include reluctance to do video calls, sudden declarations of love, requests to move conversations to private platforms like WhatsApp, and inconsistencies in profiles.
independent.ng
· 2026-09-18
Access Bank launched the "Spot The Scam" nationwide awareness campaign targeting Nigerian teenagers and students aged 12-19 to combat growing exposure to digital fraud schemes including romance scams, hacking, and money laundering. The initiative, running until December 2026, was prompted by the EFCC's arrest of 792 young people in Lagos in December 2024 who were allegedly operating fraud schemes targeting victims outside Nigeria. The campaign aims to equip young people with practical knowledge to identify and protect themselves from financial crimes while building safer digital habits.
yahoo.com
· 2026-09-17
Five alleged leaders of the Black Axe organization were extradited from South Africa to the United States in September 2024 to face charges related to years of online romance scams, advance fee schemes, and money laundering spanning 2011-2021. The conspirators used fake identities on dating websites and social media to target U.S. victims with fabricated stories—such as romantic partners stranded in South Africa needing money—and pressured victims to send cash, electronics, and personal information, with some victims coerced through threats to distribute sensitive photographs. The scheme involved laundering proceeds through U.S. bank accounts controlled by victims and shell companies before transferring funds to South Africa.
ewn.co.za
· 2026-09-17
Cybersecurity experts warn that artificial intelligence is making romance scams increasingly difficult to detect, as criminals use AI-generated fake images, videos, and voices to build convincing false identities. The warning comes after six Nigerian nationals were extradited to the United States for allegedly using romance scams to defraud over 100 victims of more than R100 million. Experts advise users to be suspicious of unsolicited messages from strangers and emotional sob stories requesting money, and recommend verifying profiles through reverse-image searches.
madamenoire.com
· 2026-09-16
Six Nigerian nationals affiliated with the Black Axe crime network were extradited from South Africa to the United States in September 2026 to face wire fraud and money laundering charges related to romance scams targeting over 100 American women. The defendants allegedly defrauded victims of approximately $6 million through sophisticated schemes in which they posed as romantic interests claiming emergencies and requesting money or electronic devices. The criminal conduct spanned from 2011 through 2021, with the defendants operating from Cape Town as regional leaders of the international crime organization.
pulse.ng
· 2026-09-15
Five Nigerian men allegedly linked to the Black Axe criminal network were extradited from South Africa and face federal fraud charges in the US for operating romance scams from at least 2011 to 2021, with maximum collective prison sentences potentially reaching 100 years. The defendants allegedly posed as romantic interests on social media and dating websites to deceive US victims into sending money or valuable items, sometimes threatening to release sensitive photographs if victims refused, while also laundering money from advance-fee fraud and business email compromise schemes. South African authorities reported the scheme targeted over 100 US women, including pensioners and businesspeople, allegedly defrauding them of more than R100 million (approximately $5.5 million
witness.co.za
· 2026-09-15
This article documents a gender-based violence crisis in Richmond, South Africa, where a fourth woman, 37-year-old Sibongile Mdali, was beaten to death by her boyfriend Funda Shelembe (44), who has been arrested and charged with murder. The killing is part of a pattern of femicide in the area that also includes the shooting deaths of two women by a boyfriend and another woman allegedly beaten by her adult children, prompting community leaders and government stakeholders to launch initiatives and dialogues urging women to report abuse and calling for stronger protection measures.
lavocedinewyork.com
· 2026-09-14
Six Nigerian nationals alleged to be members of the Black Axe criminal syndicate were extradited from South Africa to the United States to face wire fraud and money laundering charges for orchestrating a romance scam that defrauded over 100 American women of approximately $6 million. The suspects used social media, dating sites, and VoIP services to build emotional connections with victims before manipulating them into sending money for fabricated emergencies, legal fees, and inheritance claims. The investigation involved South African law enforcement's Hawks unit, the FBI, and the U.S. Secret Service, with prosecutors alleging the network also used money laundering tactics including shipping electronics and opening U.S. bank accounts to transfer stolen
eyeradio.org
· 2026-09-14
Six Nigerian nationals were extradited from South Africa to the United States in September 2026 to face wire fraud and money laundering charges related to an international romance scam that targeted over 100 American women, including retirees and businesspeople. The suspects, allegedly members of the Black Axe criminal network, defrauded victims of approximately $6.2 million through fake online romantic relationships and false pretenses. The men were arrested in Cape Town in 2021 and extradited after a five-year investigation involving multiple countries and law enforcement agencies.
bignewsnetwork.com
· 2026-09-14
Six Nigerian nationals affiliated with the Black Axe criminal network were extradited from South Africa to the United States in September 2021 to face wire fraud and money laundering charges for operating romance scams that defrauded over 100 American women of more than $6 million. The men, arrested in Cape Town in 2021, allegedly targeted pensioners and businesspeople by establishing fake online relationships and convincing victims to send money. The extradition was coordinated through Interpol as part of broader international efforts to disrupt organized cybercrime networks responsible for romance scams, cryptocurrency fraud, and fake investment schemes.
ewn.co.za
· 2026-09-14
This article is not about elder fraud or scams. It covers South African parliament hosting the Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference in Cape Town and tension over Nigeria's boycott threat due to concerns about xenophobic attacks on its citizens in South Africa. While one headline mentions romance scams involving Nigerians, the article itself focuses on parliamentary conference attendance and international relations, not fraud details.
jerseyeveningpost.com
· 2026-09-14
Reports of online fraud in Jersey have tripled over three years, with artificial intelligence enabling scammers to create increasingly sophisticated and convincing frauds including deepfake videos impersonating politicians and fake investment platforms. The Jersey Financial Services Commission warns that fraudsters are using AI and subtle impersonation tactics to manipulate victims into making quick financial decisions, with Revolut scams alone accounting for £180,000 in losses across 75% of scam crime reports last month.
iharare.com
· 2026-09-13
Six Nigerian nationals were extradited from South Africa to the United States to face charges of wire fraud and money laundering for operating a sophisticated romance scam that defrauded over 100 American women of more than $6 million. The suspects, arrested in Cape Town in 2021, allegedly used fake online romantic relationships to gain victims' trust before stealing money, targeting pensioners and businesspeople. The men are believed to be members of Black Axe, a transnational criminal network linked to cyber-enabled financial fraud schemes worldwide.
capetownetc.com
· 2026-09-13
Six Nigerian nationals linked to the Black Axe criminal network were extradited from South Africa to the United States on fraud and money laundering charges related to online romance scams. The men are accused of targeting over 100 American women, including pensioners and businesspeople, defrauding them of more than R100 million through sophisticated fake online relationships. The extradition followed their 2021 arrest in South Africa and a February 2024 Cape Town court ruling that approved their transfer to face US charges.
iol.co.za
· 2026-09-13
Six Nigerian nationals alleged to be members of the Black Axe organised crime network were extradited from South Africa to the United States to face wire fraud and money laundering charges related to romance scams that defrauded over 100 women of approximately R100 million. The suspects, arrested in South Africa in 2021, targeted victims through sophisticated online relationships to manipulate and steal money from them, causing emotional harm to pensioners and businesspeople. The extradition was facilitated by South African law enforcement agencies including the Hawks and Interpol in collaboration with the FBI and US Secret Service.
ground.news
· 2026-09-13
Six Nigerian nationals linked to the Black Axe organized criminal network have been extradited from South Africa to the United States for allegedly defrauding over 100 American women out of more than $6 million through sophisticated online romance scams. The men face charges of wire fraud and money laundering in connection with the scheme. Law enforcement agencies including INTERPOL South Africa and the Hawks facilitated the extradition in September.
arrivealive.co.za
· 2026-09-13
Six Nigerian nationals affiliated with the Black Axe organized crime network were extradited from South Africa to the United States on September 11, 2026, to face wire fraud and money laundering charges. The men are alleged to have perpetrated romance scams targeting over 100 women in the US, defrauding them of more than R100 million ($5.5 million USD equivalent) by posing as romantic interests online. The victims included pensioners and businesspeople who were targeted through sophisticated fraudulent relationships designed to steal their money.
transcripts.cnn.com
· 2026-09-13
This transcript is not about elder fraud or scams. It covers President Trump's visit to Ireland for meetings with Irish leaders and attendance at a golf event. While the transcript mentions "Nigerians Extradited to U.S. to Face Charges in Romance Scams" in the headline, the actual content provided does not include details about that story. I cannot summarize elder fraud content that is not present in the provided text.
hayspost.com
· 2026-09-13
Six Nigerian nationals arrested in Cape Town in 2021 are being extradited to the United States to face wire fraud and money laundering charges for their roles in a romance scam that defrauded over 100 American women of more than $6 million. The men are alleged members of the Black Axe criminal network, which targeted pensioners and businesspeople through sophisticated online relationships. They will be handed over to FBI and U.S. Secret Service officials for prosecution in the United States.
citizen.digital
· 2026-09-12
Six Nigerian men affiliated with Black Axe, a transnational cybercrime network, were extradited to the US from South Africa to face wire fraud and money laundering charges totaling approximately Ksh.700 million (~$5.4 million). The men allegedly targeted pensioners and businesspeople through sophisticated romance scams and advance-fee fraud schemes operated from Cape Town between 2011 and 2021, using false identities on social media and dating websites to deceive victims into sending money. The suspects face maximum sentences of 20 years on each charge and used bank accounts and business entities to launder the fraudulent proceeds.
insidepolitic.co.za
· 2026-09-12
Six Nigerian nationals were extradited from South Africa to the United States to face wire fraud and money laundering charges for allegedly defrauding over 100 women of more than R100 million through online romance scams. The men, linked to Black Axe, a Nigerian organized crime network, allegedly operated from Cape Town between 2011 and 2021, using false identities on social media and dating websites to establish relationships with victims—including pensioners and businesspeople—before persuading them to send money or valuables under false pretenses such as travel emergencies.
ewn.co.za
· 2026-09-12
Six Nigerian nationals alleged to be members of the black axe organised criminal network are being extradited to the United States for their involvement in romance scams that defrauded victims of approximately R100 million. The Hawks facilitated the extradition process, which was expected to be completed on Friday afternoon. Additionally, National Coloured Congress leader Fadiel Adams appeared in court on charges related to fraud and is awaiting a pre-trial conference scheduled for the following month.
facebook.com
· 2026-09-12
Six Nigerian nationals were arrested and will be extradited to the United States for operating romance scams that targeted over 100 women. The men defrauded their victims of more than $6 million, according to South African police.
okayafrica.com
· 2026-09-12
Six Nigerian nationals linked to the Black Axe criminal network were extradited to the U.S. to face wire fraud and money laundering charges for an online romance scam that defrauded over 100 American women of more than $6 million. The victims included pensioners and businesspeople who were targeted through elaborate fake online relationships. In response to violence against Nigerian migrants in South Africa, Nigeria's parliament indefinitely suspended official visits to the country.
telegraphherald.com
· 2026-09-12
Six Nigerian nationals were extradited to the United States on Friday to face wire fraud and money laundering charges after being arrested in Cape Town in 2021 for their involvement in an organized romance scam network. The men allegedly swindled American women out of over $6 million through online dating fraud schemes. They were handed over to FBI officials for prosecution in the U.S.
punchng.com
· 2026-09-12
Six Nigerians linked to the Black Axe criminal network were extradited from South Africa to the United States to face wire fraud and money-laundering charges for operating romance scams that defrauded over 100 American women of more than $6 million. The suspects, arrested in Cape Town in 2021, allegedly targeted victims including pensioners and businesspeople through sophisticated fake online relationships and cryptocurrency fraud. They are now in FBI custody to face prosecution in the US.
townpress.co.za
· 2026-09-11
Six Nigerian nationals arrested in Cape Town in 2021 are being extradited to the United States to face charges for an online romance scam that defrauded over 100 American women of more than $6 million. The men allegedly used elaborate fake online relationships to persuade victims, including pensioners and businesspeople, to transfer money as part of an organized criminal network linked to Black Axe. They face wire fraud and money laundering charges in US federal court.
thenews.com.pk
· 2026-09-11
Six Nigerian nationals are being extradited from South Africa to the United States to face charges for operating romance scams that defrauded over 100 American women of more than $100 million. The victims included pensioners and businesspeople who were targeted through sophisticated online relationships. The suspects are linked to the Black Axe criminal organization, which has been the subject of ongoing international law enforcement operations coordinated by Interpol, the FBI, and U.S. Secret Service.
saharareporters.com
· 2026-09-11
Six Nigerian nationals alleged to be members of the Black Axe criminal network were extradited from South Africa to the United States to face wire fraud and money laundering charges. The suspects targeted over 100 women in the US through online romance scams, defrauding them of more than R100 million, with victims including pensioners and businesspeople. The men were arrested in South Africa in 2021 and handed over to FBI and US Secret Service officials following coordination with INTERPOL South Africa.
enca.com
· 2026-09-11
Six Nigerian men believed to be members of the Black Axe organized crime network were extradited to the United States for allegedly defrauding over 100 American women of more than R100 million (approximately $5.4 million USD) through a sophisticated online romance scam. The suspects, arrested in South Africa in 2021, used fake identities and fabricated online relationships on dating websites and social media to gain victims' trust before stealing money from pensioners and businesspeople. They now face multiple charges in the US and are in custody of Interpol and the FBI.
arise.tv
· 2026-09-11
Six Nigerian nationals arrested in South Africa in 2021 are being extradited to the United States for operating a romance scam that defrauded over 100 women of more than R100 million (approximately $5.4-6.7 million USD). The suspects, alleged members of the Black Axe network, face charges of wire fraud and money laundering and were handed over to FBI and US Secret Service officials for transport to the US.
ntvkenya.co.ke
· 2026-09-11
Six Nigerian members of the Black Axe organized crime network were extradited from South Africa to the United States to face charges including wire fraud and money laundering related to romance scams. The men allegedly defrauded more than 100 women in the US, including pensioners and businesspeople, of over 100 million rand ($6.2 million) through online romance schemes. The suspects were arrested in South Africa in 2021 and handed over to US FBI and Secret Service officials.
thecable.ng
· 2026-09-11
Six Nigerian nationals, alleged members of the Black Axe criminal network, have been extradited from South Africa to the United States to face wire fraud and money laundering charges related to a romance scam that defrauded over 100 women of approximately R100 million (roughly $5.4 million USD). The suspects were arrested in South Africa in 2021 and handed over to FBI and US Secret Service officials for prosecution in the United States.
persecondnews.com
· 2026-09-11
Six Nigerian nationals were extradited from South Africa to the United States for orchestrating romance scams that defrauded over 100 American women of approximately R100 million. The suspects, linked to the Black Axe network, used fake online relationships to drain victims' savings and face charges of wire fraud and money laundering. The men were arrested in South Africa in 2021 and extradited after years in custody through collaboration between South African law enforcement, INTERPOL, the FBI, and US Secret Service.
guelph.ctvnews.ca
· 2026-09-11
Two Nigerian nationals were extradited from South Africa after operating a romance scam that defrauded victims of substantial sums through fake dating profiles and fake investment schemes. The scammers posed as attractive individuals on dating apps to build relationships with victims before convincing them to send money for supposed investments or emergencies. The extradition was coordinated between South African and international law enforcement authorities to prosecute the perpetrators.
chronicle.ng
· 2026-09-11
Six Nigerian members of the Black Ax criminal network were extradited from South Africa to the United States to face wire fraud and money laundering charges for operating online romance scams targeting over 100 women. The suspects allegedly defrauded their victims of more than R100 million (approximately $5.4 million USD) through fake romantic relationships. The extradition, facilitated by South African Hawks and INTERPOL, was handed off to FBI and US Secret Service officials at Cape Town International Airport.
apanews.net
· 2026-09-11
Six Nigerian nationals accused of orchestrating an international romance scam targeting over 100 women in the United States are being extradited from South Africa to face US charges of wire fraud and money laundering. The suspects allegedly defrauded victims of more than R100 million (approximately $5.4 million) by building trust through fake online relationships before manipulating them into sending money under false pretenses. The men were arrested in South Africa in 2021 and are linked to organized crime group "Black Axe."
thenicheng.com
· 2026-09-11
Six Nigerian nationals were extradited from South Africa to the United States to face wire fraud and money laundering charges for allegedly defrauding more than 100 women through online romance scams, stealing over R100 million (approximately $5.4 million USD). The suspects, arrested in South Africa in 2021 and allegedly affiliated with the Black Axe organized crime network, were handed over to FBI and US Secret Service officials at Cape Town International Airport. The extradition represents a coordinated effort between South African law enforcement and international partners to combat transnational organized crime.
graphic.com.gh
· 2026-09-11
Six Nigerian members of the Black Axe crime syndicate are being extradited from South Africa to the US to face wire fraud and money-laundering charges for orchestrating romance scams that targeted over 100 American women and defrauded them of more than $6 million. The group, arrested in 2021, used sophisticated online relationships to con victims including pensioners and businesspeople out of their money. Black Axe is a Nigerian mafia-style organization operating globally and known for human trafficking, internet fraud, and violence.
guardian.ng
· 2026-09-11
Six Nigerian men were extradited from South Africa to the United States to face prosecution for an alleged romance scam that defrauded over 100 women of more than $5 million through fake online relationships. The suspects, arrested in South Africa in 2021, targeted pensioners and businesspeople, and are also accused of wire fraud, money laundering, and membership in the Black Axe criminal network. The extradition was coordinated by South African authorities, Interpol, the FBI, and US Secret Service.
the-star.co.ke
· 2026-09-11
Six Nigerians accused of romance scams targeting over 100 women in the US, defrauding them of more than $6 million, are being extradited from South Africa to face wire fraud and money-laundering charges. The suspects, arrested in 2021 and believed to be members of the Black Axe crime syndicate, used sophisticated online relationships to defraud victims including pensioners and businesspeople. They will be handed over to FBI and US Secret Service officials for prosecution in the United States.
taylorvilledailynews.com
· 2026-09-11
Six Nigerian nationals arrested in Cape Town in 2021 are being extradited to the United States to face wire fraud and money laundering charges for operating romance scams that defrauded over 100 American women of more than $6 million. The men, affiliated with the Black Axe criminal network, targeted pensioners and businesspeople through sophisticated online relationships. Their extradition follows broader Interpol operations against West African organized crime groups involved in cyber-enabled financial fraud.
cnn.com
· 2026-09-11
Six Nigerian nationals arrested in Cape Town in 2021 are being extradited to the US to face wire fraud and money laundering charges for their involvement in romance scams that defrauded over 100 American women of more than $6 million. The men are allegedly part of the Black Axe criminal network, which is known for cyber-enabled financial fraud targeting victims through fake online relationships. Among the victims were pensioners and businesspeople who were deceived through sophisticated online schemes.
enca.com
· 2026-09-11
A group of Nigerian nationals accused of operating a sophisticated romance-scam network from South Africa are being extradited to the United States to face charges including wire and mail fraud, money laundering, and identity theft. The scammers posed as romantic partners to build relationships with victims online, then solicited money, laptops, phones, and other valuables by fabricating emergencies such as muggings, construction accidents, or legal fees, with the operation allegedly linked to the Nigerian organized-crime group "Black Axe." After arrests in South Africa in 2021 and years of legal battles, South African courts approved the extradition in 2024, with the suspects being handed over to US authorities on Friday.
bizpacreview.com
· 2026-09-11
A Nigerian chieftain allegedly billed California's Medicaid program over $34 million through his home health agency, with billing revenue jumping from under $2 million annually (2018-2021) to $17 million in 2023. He allegedly used the fraudulently obtained funds to purchase luxury California real estate worth over $7 million and construct a palace in Nigeria, including a golden statue of himself. Fraud experts identified multiple red flags including extraordinarily high service volumes, failure to file mandatory disclosure forms, and unidentifiable employees, though no charges have been filed against the individual.
legalreader.com
· 2026-09-09
A Nigerian man, Oluwasegun Baiyewu, was sentenced to 95 months in federal prison for laundering over $3.1 million obtained through fraud schemes targeting U.S. people and businesses, including romance scams, unemployment insurance fraud, and business email compromises. Between May 2020 and October 2021, Baiyewu worked with at least six others to convert stolen funds into used vehicles that were exported to Nigeria, with one notable transaction involving a Puerto Rican renewable energy company losing $280,000 through a business email compromise scam. The group used encrypted messaging services to coordinate the movement of fraud proceeds and coordinate purchases made with the stolen money.
dailymail.com
· 2026-09-07
A 68-year-old retired British pensioner in Thailand lost his entire income and savings to a romance scam after being targeted by cyber predators posing as an American woman named Emily Smith who claimed to need inheritance fees paid upfront. Over five months, Simon Charles Hill transferred approximately £500 monthly from his state pension plus his personal savings, eventually becoming homeless and sleeping in a Bangkok hotel lobby when he ran out of money. A local charity helped him avoid immigration detention and funded his return to the UK where he is now recovering.
techtimes.com
· 2026-09-03
British media personality Katie Price discovered her husband Lee Andrews' claimed $50 million cryptocurrency wallet contained only $3, with evidence suggesting he had briefly funded it with $14,490 before draining it months earlier. Andrews, a self-described Dubai businessman, had provided a cryptocurrency recovery phrase as "proof" of wealth, exploiting a technical vulnerability where such phrases prove access but not actual account balances. The couple married within weeks of meeting in January 2026, and Price has since consulted a divorce lawyer after discovering the apparent fraud.
premiumtimesng.com
· 2026-09-01
Nigerian national Adebola Adekunle was extradited to the United States to face prosecution for sextortion of a minor in Mississippi, a financially motivated crime that resulted in the victim's death. Adekunle, arrested in Nigeria in August 2023, faces a three-count federal indictment including sexual exploitation of a minor resulting in death, production of child sexual abuse material, and interstate threats to extort, with potential sentences including a mandatory 30-year minimum prison term.
focusonafrica.info
· 2026-08-30
Operation Jackal IV, a coordinated international law enforcement effort involving 22 countries, resulted in 58 arrests and the seizure of $2.67 million in assets targeting West African criminal networks including Black Axe, which operate romance scams, cryptocurrency fraud, and Business Email Compromise schemes. The eight-month investigation across six continents identified 263 additional suspects and disrupted extensive Crime-as-a-Service networks that provide logistical and money laundering support to cybercriminals globally.
newsmakerslive.org
· 2026-08-30
A federal jury in Puerto Rico convicted Nigerian national Oluwasegun Baiyewu for his role in a money-laundering conspiracy that processed proceeds from romance scams, pandemic unemployment fraud, and business email compromise schemes targeting elderly and vulnerable Americans between 2020 and 2021. Baiyewu and four co-defendants laundered funds generated from victims across multiple states through hundreds of financial transactions, using some proceeds to purchase vehicles shipped to Nigeria. The case marks the fifth conviction in the conspiracy, with sentencing pending before U.S. District Judge Raúl M. Arias-Marxuach.
cryptobriefing.com
· 2026-08-29
New York's Department of State issued a consumer alert warning that AI-powered investment scams cost Americans over $8 billion in 2025, with 144,041 reported victims and a 38% surge in fraud compared to 2024. Scammers use AI-generated deepfakes of celebrities and voice cloning to promote counterfeit cryptocurrency platforms and trading sites that show fake profits before disappearing with victims' money, a tactic known as "pig butchering." The median individual loss reached $10,560, with victims directed to fraudulent platforms mimicking legitimate exchanges, often through social media, dating apps, and email, with particularly high losses occurring through romance-investment fraud schemes.
saharareporters.com
· 2026-08-29
Oluwasegun Baiyewu, a 40-year-old Nigerian national residing in Houston, Texas, was sentenced to 95 months in prison for laundering over $3.1 million in fraud proceeds through a conspiracy involving business email compromise, romance scams, and unemployment insurance fraud between May 2020 and October 2021. Baiyewu led a network of at least six co-conspirators across the U.S. and Nigeria who used encrypted messaging to coordinate the purchase of used and salvaged vehicles in America, which were then exported to Nigeria to convert the illicit proceeds into physical assets. The scheme included laundering approximately $280,000 stolen from a Puerto R
punchng.com
· 2026-08-29
Oluwasegun Baiyewu, a 40-year-old Nigerian national based in Houston, Texas, was sentenced to 95 months in prison for laundering over $3.1 million in proceeds from business email compromise, romance, and unemployment insurance fraud schemes targeting US citizens between May 2020 and October 2021. Working with at least six co-conspirators in the US and Nigeria, Baiyewu used encrypted messaging apps to coordinate the purchase and shipment of salvaged vehicles to Nigeria, including laundering $280,000 stolen from a Puerto Rican renewable energy company through a business email compromise scam.
justice.gov
· 2026-08-28
Oluwasegun Baiyewu, a 40-year-old Nigerian national from Houston, was sentenced to 95 months in prison for laundering over $3.1 million in fraud proceeds from business email compromise, romance, and unemployment insurance scams targeting U.S. citizens between May 2020 and October 2021. Baiyewu led a conspiracy with six co-conspirators to convert the illicit funds into used cars and ship them to West Africa, including in one instance laundering approximately $280,000 stolen from a Puerto Rican renewable energy company through a business email compromise scheme.
newrepublic.com
· 2026-08-21
A 24-year-old Nigerian "Yahoo Boy" named Chibuike scammed tens of thousands of dollars from overseas victims by impersonating American celebrities and building fake romantic relationships to extract money through digital manipulation and fake investment schemes. The article explores the real lives of Nigerian romance scammers profiled in a new book that examines how poverty, inequality, and limited economic opportunities drive young West African men into cybercrime targeting vulnerable individuals in English-speaking countries. The piece traces the historical roots of 419 scams back to colonial Nigeria, where similar schemes evolved from impersonation tactics used by officials and ordinary people to exploit victims through false authority and deception.
insidestory.org.au
· 2026-08-21
Journalist Carlos Barragan investigates Nigerian "Yahoo Boys" scammers after his own mother was defrauded by a man posing as an American soldier named Brian, who manipulated her into purchasing rings and romantic gifts. The book explores how these scammers exploit Western loneliness by creating fake identities on dating apps and social media, targeting isolated and emotionally vulnerable people seeking companionship rather than those seeking financial gain. Barragan's investigation reveals the intersection between widespread poverty in Nigeria and the emotional isolation of Western victims, portraying a morally complex landscape where desperation on both sides fuels the scam operations.
globalnation.inquirer.net
· 2026-08-21
Nigeria's President Bola Tinubu ordered an investigation into a second fake government agency, the National Brands Development and Made in Nigeria Special Project Office, headed by George Buchi Nwabueze, which operated illegally from a government office. This discovery follows the recent uncovering of another fraudulent agency, the Presidential Foreign Investment Promotion Council, that operated for years and accessed public funds. Analysts suspect the perpetrators are collaborating with senior government officials to embezzle money from the national budget, with three officials already suspended and an arrest warrant issued for Nwabueze.
thediplomat.com
· 2026-08-19
Paul, a 50-year-old Nigerian, was trafficked into forced labor at a Cambodian online scam compound after seeking an admin job, where he was beaten, tortured, and forced into criminal work alongside hundreds of thousands of others. During a December 2025 Thai military airstrike on the scam hub in Choam where he was held, Paul survived by sheltering in a concrete drain while the casino and surrounding buildings were bombed repeatedly. Cambodia's scam industry, worth approximately half the country's GDP, became a target of military conflict between Thailand and Cambodia, which the Thai military framed as a "war against scammers" while Cambodia's ruling elites exploited the crackdown
blackenterprise.com
· 2026-08-19
Americans 60 and older reported more than 200,000 elder fraud complaints to the FBI in 2025, resulting in nearly $8 billion in losses, with scammers increasingly using AI technology to identify vulnerable victims through obituaries, create personalized scripts, and generate deepfakes. The growing threat particularly impacts the "sandwich generation" caring for both children and aging parents, with experts noting that actual losses are likely higher due to significant underreporting driven by victim shame and delay in disclosure. One widow lost over $7,000 after scammers falsely claimed her late husband owed taxes and threatened her inheritance.
tuko.co.ke
· 2026-08-14
Babajide Adesayo, a 41-year-old from Georgia, was convicted on 18 criminal counts for operating a transnational money laundering scheme that defrauded elderly Americans of over $2.7 million through romance scams between April 2020 and September 2021. The fraudsters posed as romantic interests, business partners, or friends to gain victims' trust, then fabricated emergencies to solicit wire transfers, which Adesayo laundered through his automotive business accounts and transferred to overseas locations in China, Hong Kong, Nigeria, and elsewhere. Adesayo continued receiving and moving stolen funds even after his initial arrest in June 2024 while on bond
dailypost.ng
· 2026-08-13
Babajide Adesayo, a 41-year-old Nigerian residing in Georgia, was convicted by a federal jury of laundering over $2.7 million obtained from romance scam victims between April 2020 and September 2021. The victims, primarily elderly individuals, were deceived by scammers posing as romantic partners or business associates and tricked into sending money for fabricated reasons such as medical expenses and business equipment. Adesayo faces up to 20 years in prison for conspiracy convictions and up to 10 years for each of 16 transactional money-laundering counts, with sentencing scheduled for November 2026.
punchng.com
· 2026-08-13
A 41-year-old Nigerian, Babajide Adesayo, was convicted by a U.S. federal jury of laundering over $2.7 million obtained from romance fraud and online scams targeting elderly victims between April 2020 and September 2021. Adesayo received funds from victims' retirement savings through co-defendant Efemena Igbe's business accounts, then transferred most of the money to overseas accounts in China, Hong Kong, Nigeria, and other countries. He faces up to 20 years imprisonment on conspiracy charges and up to 10 years on each money laundering count, with sentencing scheduled for November 20, 2026.
hoodline.com
· 2026-08-13
A York County man lost $47,000 to a romance scam where a 27-year-old Bronx resident posed as a grieving widow named "Lara Lafayette" on a dating app for widowed people, claiming she needed money to access an inheritance from her deceased father. The suspect, Abdul Rashid Ibraham, created fraudulent documents and bank certificates to convince the victim to send checks between March and April, before the scheme unraveled when a bank employee reported the suspicious activity. Ibraham faces felony charges including theft by deception and financial exploitation of an older adult, with investigators also discovering he used a stolen identity to open the bank account where the checks were deposited.
smh.com.au
· 2026-08-12
AI-generated scam emails impersonating prestigious publishers, editors, and media figures are targeting authors internationally with fake publishing deals and promotional opportunities. Scammers use AI to create convincing, detailed emails that reference authors' work and professional credentials before eventually requesting payment for services. The Australian Society of Authors has reported a significant surge in these "pig butchering" style scams, with some writers receiving multiple fraudulent emails daily.
afr.com
· 2026-08-11
Nigerian internet scammers, known as "Yahoo Boys," target lonely or vulnerable Westerners by impersonating attractive women or celebrities in romance scams that often result in financial loss. One notable case involved a scammer posing as an American soldier promising to ship gold from Syria, who defrauded a middle-class woman in Madrid, prompting Spanish journalist Carlos Barragán to investigate the operation after his own mother fell victim. These schemes exploit emotional vulnerability and trust to manipulate victims into sending money or disclosing personal information.
newsgram.com
· 2026-08-11
A 23-year-old man in Delhi lost Rs 1.46 lakh to a romance scam on the dating app Grindr in March 2024, after a person posing as "Dr Harry Robot" from the US convinced him to wire money for supposed travel and customs expenses. The investigation traced the scam to a 22-year-old Nigerian woman trained by an Indian coach to impersonate romantic interests and immigration officials, with the wider syndicate allegedly defrauding at least seven victims of approximately Rs 94 lakh. This modern variant of the classic "Nigerian prince" scam exploits loneliness and desire for connection rather than greed, making it particularly difficult for victims
aol.com
· 2026-08-09
The author describes various scams he and acquaintances have recently encountered, including impersonation calls from "bank fraud prevention," fake emails from compromised friend accounts requesting gift cards, a fraudulent Facebook estate sale post, counterfeit checks, and text messages with malicious links. He warns readers against clicking unknown links, scanning suspicious QR codes (quishing), and providing personal information via email or text, noting that highly educated people are often overconfident in their ability to detect fraud.
modernghana.com
· 2026-08-09
A Spanish journalist investigating a romance scam that victimized his mother traced the perpetrator to Lagos, Nigeria, where he conducted over 250 interviews revealing that the scammers were often young, undereducated men operating from modest homes who used sustained attention rather than sophistication to defraud lonely victims. One Irish woman lost €78,000 to a scammer posing as a professional wrestler, illustrating the substantial financial and emotional damage caused by these schemes that exploit isolation in wealthy countries. The journalist's reporting became a book titled "The Yahoo Boys," offering an empathetic yet unflinching examination of both the scammers' circumstances and their victims' vulnerabilities.
highlandcountypress.com
· 2026-08-08
Abdoul Issaka Assimiou, 38, of Parma, Ohio, was sentenced to 63 months in prison for his role in an international romance fraud conspiracy that targeted elderly Americans from December 2017 to March 2024. Assimiou and co-conspirators used fake dating profiles and social media to deceive victims into sending money via wire transfer based on false stories, with Assimiou retaining portions of the stolen funds and shipping goods to accomplices in Ghana. He was ordered to pay $220,485 in restitution to 15 victims.
leadership.ng
· 2026-08-08
A Spanish man's investigation into a romance scam targeting his divorced mother led him to Lagos, Nigeria, where he discovered that young men with minimal education were using basic phones and internet access to manipulate lonely Western victims by creating fake online relationships. His mother had been approached by a scammer posing as a U.S. soldier named Brian who claimed to have gold bars and wanted to move in with her, but the investigation revealed the fraud originated in Nigeria. Barragan's journey—meeting over 50 scammers and victims—resulted in his book "The Yahoo Boys" and highlighted how widespread loneliness in Western societies makes people vulnerable to these carefully constructed emotional manipulation schemes.
bankingjournal.aba.com
· 2026-08-05
Financial scams exploit consistent psychological levers—trust, urgency, reward, fear, and confusion—that criminals adapt to new technologies rather than fundamentally reinvent. Historical schemes like George C. Parker's bridge sales and Charles Ponzi's investment fraud demonstrate that modern scams are often traditional confidence tricks delivered through faster, more anonymous digital channels such as spoofed communications, fake websites, and synthetic identities. Financial institutions must anticipate how technology and social behavior evolve together to manage fraud risk proactively rather than merely responding after losses occur.
independent.ng
· 2026-08-01
Nigerian criminal networks are increasingly using digital platforms and online scams to recruit and exploit human trafficking victims, luring them with fake job offers, scholarships, and business proposals shared through social media and messaging apps. Government officials and international agencies have acknowledged that existing laws and institutions are inadequate to combat this evolving threat and are calling for urgent legal reforms, stronger inter-agency collaboration, and technology-driven solutions to address the growing epidemic of digitally-enabled human trafficking.
dailypost.ng
· 2026-07-31
Nigeria's First Lady has warned citizens about online scams being weaponized for human trafficking, with young Nigerians—including graduates—being lured abroad through fake employment and investment opportunities. Victims are then trapped in exploitative conditions and forced to conduct romance scams, cryptocurrency fraud, and other online schemes targeting people in the US, UK, and Canada. Since January 2026, Nigeria has rescued 156 trafficking victims, while over 300,000 people are trafficked annually into scam compounds in Southeast Asia, where their documents are confiscated and they're coerced into committing fraud under threats and intimidation.
groundup.org.za
· 2026-07-27
A journalist posed as a job seeker to expose a romance/employment scam syndicate, losing approximately R4,000 (about $220 USD) after responding to fake Amazon job advertisements on TikTok that redirected to WhatsApp and Telegram. The scam, operated by a China-based syndicate using AI-generated ads and fake company names, used multiple handlers and progressively escalated requests for deposits while promising quick earnings from "order processing" work. Despite reporting to police and banks, authorities failed to assist in recovering the funds or shutting down the operation.
wbur.org
· 2026-07-24
New York Times reporter Carlos Barragán discovered an organized romance scam network operating from Nigeria after his own mother fell victim to one of these schemes, prompting him to travel there and investigate. The scammers, known as "Yahoo Boys," target vulnerable and lonely people seeking emotional connection, causing serious emotional and financial harm to victims across the globe. To protect yourself, be cautious of online relationships that move quickly toward declarations of love or requests for money, verify the identity of people you meet online, and be skeptical of romantic interests who claim to need financial help or have sudden emergencies.
bostonglobe.com
· 2026-07-21
Romance scams originating from Nigeria typically involve young men, sometimes as young as 14, who pose as Western women online to manipulate and extract money from victims, primarily in places like California. The scammers use fake profiles, downloaded scripts, and Google searches to build convincing false identities, often targeting lonely men who are seeking romantic connections. To protect yourself, be skeptical of online romantic interests who quickly ask for money, verify identities through video calls, and research new contacts before sharing personal or financial information.
texasobserver.org
· 2026-07-17
Romance scammers operate sophisticated schemes using deepfake videos, scripts, and pressure tactics to pose as romantic partners, targeting vulnerable people who often continue sending money even after suspecting fraud—sometimes for the emotional connection alone. Author Amanda Eyre Ward explores this dark underworld in her new novel "Arrivals and Departures," drawing on two years of research including interviews with fraud examiners in Austin who work to dismantle these scams. If you're being pursued by someone online asking for money or personal information, be cautious—legitimate romantic partners won't pressure you for funds or use overly polished messaging, and it's worth reporting suspicious activity to fraud examiners and law enforcement rather than continuing engagement.
iol.co.za
· 2026-07-16
A 52-year-old woman in Klerksdorp lost R2 million from her pension after being romantically involved with a man claiming to need money to access a R14 million inheritance left by his deceased father. The scammer and his accomplices convinced her that R1.2 million was needed for a "cleansing process" to release the funds, and the Hawks police unit is now searching for three men connected to the fraud scheme. To protect yourself from similar romance scams, be wary of online or new relationships where someone quickly asks for money, verify claims about inheritances through official channels, and never send money to someone you've just met, regardless of their story.
iol.co.za
· 2026-07-16
A 52-year-old woman in Klerksdorp, South Africa lost R2 million from her pension after being targeted by a romance scam in which a man claiming to be "Emmanuel Jackson Kigezi" convinced her he needed money to release a supposed R14 million inheritance from his late father. The Hawks police unit is now searching for three men connected to the fraud scheme, which used a fake inheritance document and a fake "cleansing process" to extract payments from the victim. To protect yourself from similar scams, be wary of romantic relationships that quickly involve requests for money, never send funds to release inheritances or large sums of money, and verify claims through independent channels rather than trusting documents provided by the person asking for money.
csmonitor.com
· 2026-07-13
Romance scams, where fraudsters pose as romantic interests to deceive victims into sending money or personal information, cost Americans $1.3 billion in 2022 alone. One notable case involved a Spanish dental clinic owner who fell for a fake American soldier on Tinder who later claimed to have found gold bars, only to discover the scammer was operating from Nigeria. To protect yourself, be wary of online dating matches who avoid video calls, make unfulfilled promises to meet in person, or quickly introduce financial schemes—and consider having trusted friends or family members review suspicious communications.
news.sbs.co.kr
· 2026-07-13
A Ghanaian influencer named Frederick Kumi has been extradited to the United States after allegedly defrauding over $8 million from elderly Americans through romance scams, using fake AI-generated identities to build trust before requesting money under false pretenses like medical emergencies or investment opportunities. Kumi, who had over 100,000 social media followers and displayed a lavish lifestyle online, faces up to 20 years in prison if convicted. To protect yourself, be cautious of romantic connections from strangers online, especially those who quickly move conversations to dating apps or request money, and verify identities through video calls before engaging financially.
dailypost.ng
· 2026-07-12
Nigerian actor IK Ogbonna has denied allegations that he was involved in a $75,000 romance scam targeting a 49-year-old American woman, stating the report is "completely false" and claiming his identity has been used by imposters on fake social media accounts. The EFCC and FBI reportedly invited him for investigation after a complaint was filed, but Ogbonna warns the public that scammers frequently impersonate him online to deceive victims. To protect themselves, people should be cautious of unsolicited romantic advances from celebrities online and verify accounts directly rather than trusting unconfirmed social media profiles.
foreignpolicy.com
· 2026-07-11
Romance scams originating from Nigeria have become a major problem, with nearly one in ten American adults over 50 falling victim and losing over $1.1 billion as of 2023, according to the FTC. A journalist investigated the scam after his own mother was targeted by someone pretending to be a U.S. soldier in Syria but operating from Lagos, Nigeria, discovering that the perpetrators are often young men facing economic hardship rather than purely criminal masterminds. The article suggests protecting yourself by being cautious of online relationships that quickly become romantic, verifying identities independently, and never sending money to people you haven't met in person.
legit.ng
· 2026-07-11
Ghanaian social media influencer Frederick Kumi (known as Abu Trica) has been extradited to the United States to face trial for allegedly orchestrating a romance scam that defrauded elderly Americans of over $8 million using fake AI-generated identities. Kumi allegedly used dating platforms and social media to build trust with victims before requesting money under false pretenses like medical emergencies or investments, with the stolen funds funneled to accomplices in Ghana and the US. To protect yourself, be cautious of online romantic interests who quickly escalate conversations to requests for money, verify identities through video calls, and never send money to people you haven't met in person or to unfamiliar accounts.
cityam.com
· 2026-07-11
Romance scammers operating from Lagos, Nigeria—known as "Yahoo Boys"—target vulnerable people worldwide by posing as attractive, wealthy individuals (often American soldiers or celebrities) and build fake relationships to extract money or valuables from their victims. Journalist Carlos Barragán investigated these scams after his own mother was targeted, eventually traveling to Nigeria to meet the scammers themselves and document their operations and motivations. To protect yourself, be extremely cautious of romantic interest from people you've never met in person, especially if they quickly ask for money or claim to have valuable assets to send you—verify identities independently and involve trusted friends or family if something feels suspicious.
vanguardngr.com
· 2026-07-10
A Ghanaian social media influencer named Abu Trica (Frederick Kumi) has been extradited to the United States to face trial for allegedly orchestrating a romance scam that stole over $8 million from elderly Americans. He is accused of using artificial intelligence to create fake online identities on social media and dating platforms, gaining victims' trust, and convincing them to send money for false emergencies, travel costs, and investment opportunities. To protect yourself, be cautious of online relationships that quickly ask for money, verify identities through video calls, and never send funds to people you've only met online.
ca.news.yahoo.com
· 2026-07-06
Joseph Kwadwo Badu Boateng, known as "Dada Joe Remix," pleaded guilty to leading a $4.4 million romance and inheritance scam that targeted elderly people in Arizona and across the United States from 2013 to 2023. The scheme involved perpetrators posing as romantic interests online and falsely claiming victims had inherited gold and jewels, then demanding payment for taxes or fees before releasing the assets. Seniors and their families are urged to be cautious about online dating profiles and unsolicited messages from strangers, and to verify any inheritance claims through official channels before sending money.
streamlinefeed.co.ke
· 2026-07-05
Hundreds of thousands of trafficked workers are being held in militarized compounds run by Chinese crime syndicates in Myanmar, where they are tortured and forced to execute "pig butchering" scams—sophisticated fraud schemes targeting victims worldwide through fake cryptocurrency investments and romance schemes. The workers, lured with false job promises, have their passports confiscated and endure 16-hour shifts with brutal punishment for missing quotas or attempting escape. To protect yourself, be extremely skeptical of unsolicited investment opportunities or romantic contacts online, verify job offers independently before traveling, and report suspected scams to local authorities or the FBI's IC3 (Internet Crime Complaint Center).
dailyguidenetwork.com
· 2026-07-03
Ghanaian socialite Joseph Kwadwo Badu Boateng, known as "Dada Joe Remix," pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud for operating a $4.4 million romance and inheritance scam targeting vulnerable Americans, particularly elderly victims in Arizona, from 2013 to 2023. He and his co-conspirators posed as romantic partners online and falsely promised inheritances of gold and jewels, then convinced victims to pay taxes and fees to release the assets. To protect yourself, be cautious of online dating matches who quickly profess affection, avoid sending money to anyone you haven't met in person, and verify inheritance claims through official channels before paying any fees.
yahoo.com
· 2026-07-02
A Ghanaian man known online as "Dada Joe Remix" pleaded guilty to running a romance-and-inheritance scam that defrauded elderly victims across the United States of $4.4 million between 2013 and 2023. The scheme involved fake romantic relationships started on dating sites and false claims about inheritance windfalls, with scammers pressuring victims to pay upfront fees and taxes. Seniors should be cautious of online romantic contacts who eventually request money or claim access to inheritances, and report suspicious activity to the FBI.
asaaseradio.com
· 2026-07-02
A Ghanaian man known as "Dada Joe Remix" pleaded guilty to running a romance and inheritance fraud scheme that stole millions of dollars from victims, primarily elderly Americans in Arizona, between 2013 and 2023. The scam involved creating fake online identities to pose as romantic partners or claiming victims had inherited gold and jewels, then pressuring them to pay fees for supposed asset releases. Boateng agreed to pay $4.4 million in restitution and will be sentenced in September 2026; people should be cautious of online dating connections asking for money and verify inheritance claims through official channels rather than responding to unsolicited communications.
azfamily.com
· 2026-07-01
A Ghana-based romance scammer named Joseph Kwadwo Badu Boateng, who operated under the alias "Dada Joe Remix," pleaded guilty to defrauding older Americans for roughly a decade by posing as romantic interests on dating apps and promising fake inheritance claims that required upfront payment of taxes and fees. He and his accomplices targeted victims across Arizona and the U.S. between 2013 and 2023, and Boateng has agreed to pay $4.4 million in restitution. To protect yourself, be cautious of online romantic interests who quickly propose financial schemes or inheritance opportunities, and never send money to strangers for supposed taxes or fees on unclaimed inheritances.
uk.news.yahoo.com
· 2026-06-28
A 69-year-old Oklahoma widower lost over $85,500 after meeting a woman on Facebook who convinced him she needed money to release an inheritance of gold from England—a classic romance scam where the scammer built an emotional connection before fabricating a financial emergency. Riley refinanced his home and took out a second mortgage to pay the requested amount, and when the woman asked for an additional $40,000 with fake legal documents, he realized he'd been defrauded. To protect others, experts warn that romance scammers typically create fake identities, build trust online, and then request money for fabricated emergencies (travel, medical bills, inheritance fees, etc.), so anyone experiencing sudden requests for large sums from online contacts—especially new romantic interests—should verify claims independently and be wary of pressure to move money quickly.
thesun.ng
· 2026-06-27
Twelve members of a Nigerian organized crime group linked to the Black Axe confraternity were sentenced to 3-8.5 years in prison by a German court for operating an international romance scam that targeted vulnerable victims—primarily women, elderly people, and individuals with disabilities—through fake identities and fabricated romantic relationships on social media and dating apps. The scammers would build trust with victims before requesting money for false emergencies like medical bills or travel costs, with stolen funds funneled back to the criminal organization in Nigeria. To protect yourself, be cautious of online suitors who quickly develop emotional connections, avoid sending money to people you've never met in person, and report suspicious profiles to social media platforms and law enforcement.
cp24.com
· 2026-06-26
A German court sentenced 12 members of a Nigerian organized crime network to prison terms ranging from 3 to 8.5 years for operating international "love scams" that primarily targeted women, elderly people, and people with disabilities through fake identities on social media and dating apps. The scammers convinced victims they were in romantic relationships and tricked them into sending money for fabricated expenses, with proceeds laundered through a Nigeria-based criminal organization. To protect yourself, be cautious of romantic interests who quickly ask for money, verify identities through video calls, and report suspected scams to authorities rather than staying silent out of embarrassment.
kiro7.com
· 2026-06-25
A 42-year-old Nigerian man named Franklin Ikechukwu Nwadialo was sentenced to five years in prison for stealing $3.5 million through romance scams targeting eight victims, mostly older, divorced, or widowed individuals on dating apps like Match and Christian Café. Nwadialo posed as a military officer named "Giovanni" and used various sob stories—including claims about military fees, son's tuition, and funeral costs—to convince victims to send money, with some victims draining their savings or selling their homes. To protect yourself: be cautious of online romantic interests who avoid meeting in person, refuse requests for money (especially large sums), and verify military or employment claims through official channels before sending any funds.
thenationonlineng.net
· 2026-06-25
Franklin Ikechukwu Nwadialo, a Nigerian council chairman, was sentenced to five years in prison by a U.S. federal court for running a romance scam that defrauded eight victims of $3.5 million over 15 years. The scam involved him posing as trustworthy individuals online—sometimes claiming to run a nonprofit for autistic children—to gain victims' trust and steal their savings, targeting people who were already vulnerable due to grief or heartbreak. To protect yourself, be cautious of online romantic interests who quickly ask for money, verify identities through video calls, and research anyone asking for financial assistance before sending funds.
bookandfilmglobe.com
· 2026-06-20
Carlos Barragan's book "The Yahoo Boys" explores the Nigerian romance scam industry through interviews with teenage scammers, motivated in part by his own mother falling victim to one of these schemes. The book profiles four young Nigerian men who use online relationships to manipulate victims into sending money, revealing that despite understanding the real harm they cause, these scammers show little genuine interest in stopping. For those vulnerable to romance scams, the key takeaway is to be wary of online relationships that quickly lead to requests for money, especially from people you've never met in person.
punchng.com
· 2026-06-20
Thai police arrested six Nigerians in Bangkok for their suspected involvement in an international cocaine trafficking ring and an AI-powered romance scam targeting elderly women. The suspects, who had entered Thailand on student visas but lived in luxury apartments without legitimate employment, were caught during raids that recovered phones, computers, and bank records showing evidence of drug transactions and fraudulent online relationships created using AI-generated images. To protect yourself, be cautious of online relationships with attractive strangers claiming to be wealthy professionals, and verify identities through video calls before engaging financially or sharing personal information.
yahoo.com
· 2026-06-19
A young man named Richie from Lagos, Nigeria, who had a difficult childhood marked by parental separation and family conflict, eventually became involved in romance scams targeting older women—a scheme detailed in a new book about Nigerian scammers. The excerpt traces his path from working as an underpaid baker's apprentice at age 16 to his later involvement in fraud, illustrating how economic hardship and personal circumstances can lead people into criminal activities. For protection, people—especially older adults—should be cautious about online relationships with individuals they've never met in person, verify claims through independent research, and be wary of requests for money or personal financial information.
morungexpress.com
· 2026-06-17
Sri Lanka has become a major hub for international cybercrime, particularly telecom fraud and "pig-butchering" investment scams, with criminal networks from Southeast Asia relocating there due to economic instability and weak regulatory oversight. Victims worldwide are targeted through fake romance schemes and fraudulent investment platforms, while workers are recruited under false pretenses, have their passports confiscated, and are forced to operate scams from luxury hotels across the country. To protect yourself, be cautious of unsolicited romantic connections offering investment opportunities, verify investment platforms independently, never send money to unknown accounts, and report suspicious job listings that seem unusually lucrative or request upfront payments.
sarkaritel.com
· 2026-06-17
Sri Lanka has become a major hub for international cybercrime, with criminal networks relocating from Southeast Asia to operate sophisticated telecom and pig-butchering scams from luxury hotels and guesthouses across the country. Victims worldwide are targeted through fraudulent investment schemes, fake dating profiles, and mass phishing campaigns using stolen identities and SIM-box equipment that can manage hundreds of phone lines simultaneously. Authorities have intensified raids since mid-2024, arresting hundreds of suspected scammers, but victims can protect themselves by being cautious about unsolicited investment opportunities, verifying identities before sending money, and using strong security practices like enabling two-factor authentication and avoiding clicking links from unknown sources.
bangkokpost.com
· 2026-06-15
Police in Bangkok arrested three people—two Nigerian nationals and one Thai woman—who were operating a drug trafficking scheme disguised as a romance scam. The criminals used fake dating profiles to build trust with Thai women, then coerced them into transporting drugs; authorities seized cocaine and heroin worth over 25 million baht. To protect yourself, be cautious of romantic connections with strangers online who quickly move conversations to private messaging apps or ask you to transport items across borders.
thisismoney.co.uk
· 2026-06-15
Scammers stole nearly £1.3 billion from UK victims last year, with fraud cases surging 11% to over 4 million as criminals exploited weaknesses in online systems and social media platforms. Investment scams and "authorized push payment" frauds—where victims are tricked into transferring money directly to criminals—hit record levels, with losses rising 19% to £576 million. To protect yourself, be cautious of unsolicited investment offers and money transfer requests, verify requests through official channels before sending funds, and report suspicious activity to your bank immediately, as they can only refund 88% of losses despite protection rules.
finance.yahoo.com
· 2026-06-14
Federal authorities arrested five suspects accused of running a $15 million romance scam that defrauded over 100 elderly Americans through fake online dating profiles and AI-generated videos. The scammers built trust with victims by posing as potential romantic partners, then convinced them to send money using fabricated stories about inheritances and precious gems, with one 74-year-old victim losing $1.1 million. To protect yourself, be cautious of online dating connections that quickly develop emotional bonds and request money, verify identities through video calls, and remember that legitimate romantic interests will never ask you to send cash or wire funds.
pulse.com.gh
· 2026-06-13
A 40-year-old Ghanaian man was arrested in Morocco after being flagged by Interpol as wanted by U.S. authorities for allegedly operating an international romance scam that targeted victims in the United States, Ghana, and other countries. The scheme involved creating fake online romantic relationships to manipulate victims into sending money, and the suspect is also accused of laundering millions of dollars from the fraud through complex international bank transfers. To protect yourself, be cautious of unsolicited romantic connections online, especially from people who quickly ask for money or claim to need financial help—verify identities through video calls and never send money to people you haven't met in person.
telegraph.co.uk
· 2026-06-09
Nigerian romance scammers are defrauding lonely people in Western countries out of billions of dollars by creating fake online personas and building emotional connections before requesting money or valuables. The article follows the case of Silvia Barragan, a 56-year-old dentist who nearly fell victim to a scammer posing as an American soldier before her sons discovered the emails were originating from Lagos, Nigeria. To protect yourself, be cautious of online dating matches who quickly profess deep feelings, avoid sending money or valuables to anyone you haven't met in person, and use verification tools to check the geographic origin of suspicious communications.
the-independent.com
· 2026-06-07
Americans lost nearly $900 million to AI-powered scams in 2025, with the FBI receiving over 22,000 complaints about schemes involving deepfakes, impersonation, and fraudulent communications that appear legitimate even to trained individuals. Victims have ranged from individuals losing thousands to AI-generated voice impersonations to people losing over a million dollars to fake authority figures, with cybersecurity experts warning that losses will likely increase as AI technology becomes more sophisticated. To protect yourself, remain skeptical of unexpected communications requesting financial information or urgent action, verify requests through independent channels (calling known numbers rather than using provided contact info), and be particularly cautious of voice or video communications that seem unusual.
lovinmalta.com
· 2026-06-04
A Maltese resident lost approximately €18 million in a romance scam orchestrated by Nigerian criminals, with a mother-daughter duo arrested for allegedly receiving and laundering the stolen funds through multiple bank accounts. The scam involved identity theft and computer fraud, with a third suspect still at large. To protect yourself, be cautious of online relationships that quickly turn romantic or involve requests for money, verify identities through video calls, and never send funds to people you haven't met in person.
streamlinefeed.co.ke
· 2026-06-02
Nigerian romance scammers are impersonating celebrities like wrestler Cody Rhodes to exploit lonely people globally, extracting millions of dollars through sophisticated psychological manipulation rather than traditional phishing. The scheme, known as "Yahoo Boys" operations, has evolved to include meticulous research of victims' targets—tracking schedules and appearances to build credibility—while the stolen money fuels a chaotic underground economy in Lagos and other West African cities. To protect yourself, be extremely cautious of online romantic interests who claim to be celebrities, verify identities through official channels, and never send money to people you haven't met in person.
globalcryptopress.com
· 2026-06-01
Federal authorities seized approximately $8 billion in cryptocurrency in "Operation Blackout," the largest crypto forfeiture in U.S. history, disrupting an international scam network operating from compounds in Cambodia that had stolen funds from American bank accounts and resulted in nearly 300 arrests and the rescue of about 2,000 trafficking victims. The seized funds were primarily connected to romance and friendship scams, where victims are lured through text messages or social media and tricked into depositing cryptocurrency into fraudulent trading platforms. To protect yourself, be cautious of unsolicited contact from strangers online, verify investment opportunities through official channels before sending money, and never deposit funds into platforms you cannot independently verify as legitimate.
timesnownews.com
· 2026-05-30
Romance scams, where fraudsters pose as attractive strangers online and build emotional relationships to extract money, cost Japan ¥324.11 billion in 2025 alone, with romance scams accounting for ¥55.22 billion across thousands of cases. The scam typically begins with a wrong-number message that evolves into an attentive, patient relationship over weeks, after which the victim is manipulated into sending large sums of money; this pattern is now rapidly spreading to Indian cities like Pune, Lucknow, and Surat. To protect yourself, be wary of unsolicited messages from strangers, verify identities through video calls or in-person meetings before trusting someone, and never send money to people you haven't met in person.
pulse.ng
· 2026-05-29
Nigerian police arrested a mother and daughter, Urowhe Diana and Rokibat Imoru, along with a manhunt for a third suspect, Emmanuel Amanfo, for operating a romance scam that defrauded a victim in Malta of over ₦18 million. The scammers created fake identities to build romantic relationships with victims and then solicited money, which was funneled through multiple Nigerian bank accounts and eventually transferred to accounts controlled by the suspects. People should be cautious about online romantic relationships, especially those that quickly escalate to requests for money, and verify the identities of people they meet online before sending any funds.
thenews.com.pk
· 2026-05-28
Investment fraud has surged 87% over two years, with losses nearly doubling from $4.6 billion to $8.6 billion, making it the most lucrative crime for hackers according to the FBI's latest report. Seniors over 60 are particularly vulnerable, losing over $3.5 billion to investment scams last year, though younger investors are increasingly targeted as criminals refine their tactics using AI-generated impersonations and deepfakes. To protect yourself, verify any unsolicited investment opportunities through official regulatory channels, consult a licensed financial advisor before investing, and be wary of promises of unrealistic returns or pressure to act quickly.
nigeriannewsdirect.com
· 2026-05-26
British and Nigerian authorities arrested 31 suspected cybercriminals in a coordinated operation targeting organized fraud networks that operated through messaging groups to conduct romance scams, impersonation schemes, and money laundering across both countries. Victims—including British residents who lost significant sums like £80,000—were psychologically manipulated and emotionally exploited by criminals operating sophisticated, transnational criminal enterprises rather than individual scammers. People should be cautious of online romantic relationships that move quickly, avoid sending money to people they've only met online, and report suspicious activity to local authorities and banking institutions.
odunews.com
· 2026-05-25
Thai police arrested six Nigerian nationals operating an AI-powered romance scam targeting older Thai women from a luxury Bangkok condominium, discovered after a drug trafficking investigation revealed their broader fraud operation. The scammers used fake profiles with AI-generated faces, posed as pilots and military officers, and manipulated victims into transferring money by claiming customs fees for fake packages, with police finding scripts designed to lower victims' defenses. To protect yourself, be cautious of online relationships that move quickly to requests for money, verify the identity of people you meet online through independent means, and never send money to strangers claiming to have packages stuck in customs or similar emergencies.
bangkokpost.com
· 2026-05-24
Six Nigerian nationals connected to a cocaine trafficking network were arrested in Nonthaburi, Thailand, where police discovered they were also running a romance scam targeting older Thai women using AI-generated fake profiles of wealthy foreigners posing as pilots, soldiers, and doctors. The scammers would create fake relationships, claim to send gifts that were supposedly held in customs, and then request money for alleged customs fees. To protect yourself, be skeptical of online relationships with wealthy foreigners, verify identities through video calls with people you know in common, and never send money to strangers claiming to need customs fees or similar urgent payments.
gazettengr.com
· 2026-05-24
Thai police arrested six Nigerian nationals in Nonthaburi for running romance scams targeting Thai women using AI-generated photos on social media, while also overstaying their visas for extended periods ranging from nearly 2 to over 4 years. The suspects, who had entered Thailand on student visas but showed no evidence of attending classes or employment, were apprehended during an operation called "Dark Room Crackdown" with phones, laptops, and other equipment seized from them. To protect yourself, be cautious of romantic connections with people you haven't met in person, verify identities independently, and be skeptical of individuals using overly polished photos or asking for money or financial information.
inkl.com
· 2026-05-24
Inheritance theft is increasing as criminals target aging Americans' substantial assets through forged wills, fake loans, and abuse of power of attorney documents, with victims often unaware of the fraud until after assets have already been transferred. Both strangers using fraudulent paperwork and trusted insiders like caregivers and relatives exploit vulnerable seniors and grieving families who lack the resources or knowledge to verify claims. To protect yourself, verify all wills and financial documents through official channels, maintain detailed records of any loans or promises made to seniors, and consult an estate attorney if anything seems suspicious after a loved one's death.
straitstimes.com
· 2026-05-23
Thai police arrested six Nigerian nationals in Bangkok for operating a romance-scam network that used fake online profiles and AI-generated images to trick victims into sending money. Officers seized phones, computers, and documents containing scam scripts during a raid on a luxury condominium, with the suspects also facing charges for visa overstays ranging from two to over four years. To protect yourself, be cautious of online dating profiles that move quickly to financial requests, verify identities through video calls, and never send money to people you haven't met in person.
thestar.com.my
· 2026-05-23
Thai police arrested six Nigerian nationals in a luxury Bangkok condominium for operating romance scams that targeted victims by creating fake online profiles of attractive professionals and convincing them to send money. The operation seized phones, computers, and banking documents containing scam scripts and AI-generated images, with further charges expected as police coordinate with victims across multiple cases. To protect yourself, be cautious of online dating profiles claiming to be successful professionals like doctors or pilots who quickly ask for financial assistance, verify identities through video calls, and never send money to people you've only met online.
gazettengr.com
· 2026-05-23
A 24-year-old Nigerian man named Chinedu Theophilus Ezike was arrested in Thailand for running a romance scam targeting vulnerable women, posing as a wealthy Nigerian prince to trick them into sending money. Police recovered 40 phones, 10 ATM cards with different names, and other evidence from his apartment, and he's suspected to be connected to at least 20 additional cases alongside a Thai woman believed to be his wife. The case highlights the prevalence of romance scams in the region—victims should be cautious of online suitors claiming to be wealthy, verify identities through video calls, and never send money to people they haven't met in person.
foxnews.com
· 2026-05-23
Scammers are sending convincing fake inheritance emails claiming recipients are entitled to unclaimed estates and demanding action within 48 hours to create urgency. The emails look professional with official language and formatting, but clicking the "Check My Unclaimed Inheritance" button leads to data theft. To protect yourself, be skeptical of unexpected inheritance claims, never click links in unsolicited emails, and verify any legitimate claims by contacting financial institutions directly rather than through email links.
streamlinefeed.co.ke
· 2026-05-21
Nigerian national Samuel Ugberaese has been extradited to the United States to face federal charges for operating a large-scale romance scam network that targeted elderly and vulnerable people internationally, convincing them to send money through fabricated emergencies and fake investment opportunities. Working with co-defendants, Ugberaese used fake online personas and emotional manipulation to systematically drain victims' life savings across borders. To protect yourself, be extremely cautious of online romantic relationships that quickly escalate, never send money to people you've only met online, and verify identities through video calls before any financial transactions.
newtelegraphng.com
· 2026-05-21
A Nigerian man named Samuel Ugberaese was extradited to the United States and faces up to 40 years in prison for allegedly orchestrating romance scams that targeted elderly Americans, using fake identities to manipulate victims into sending money that was then laundered through U.S. bank accounts. Prosecutors say Ugberaese worked with a co-defendant to disguise the stolen funds by routing them through accounts registered to fake export companies. To protect yourself, be cautious of online romantic interests who quickly ask for money, verify identities through video calls, and never send funds to someone you haven't met in person.
nannews.ng
· 2026-05-21
A Nigerian man named Samuel Ugberaese has been extradited to the U.S. to face charges for running international romance scams, where he and accomplices used fake romantic stories to convince victims to send them money, then laundered the proceeds through bank accounts disguised as export companies. The scams targeted people in the U.S. and beyond, and Ugberaese faces up to 40 years in prison if convicted on charges of wire fraud and money laundering conspiracy. To protect yourself, be cautious of online romantic relationships that quickly escalate or involve requests for money, and verify the identity of anyone you meet online before sending funds.
bangkokpost.com
· 2026-05-20
Nigerian romance scammers operating overseas lured Thai women into drug distribution networks by first romancing them online, then offering them money (30,000 baht per delivery) to smuggle heroin into Thailand. Police arrested one Nigerian man and two Thai women with 65.5 kilograms of heroin worth 200 million baht that was smuggled from Laos and being packaged for distribution to tourist areas. To protect yourself, be extremely cautious of romantic relationships that develop quickly online, especially with foreigners, and never agree to transport packages or goods for people you've only met digitally.
businessday.ng
· 2026-05-20
A Nigerian man named Samuel Ugberaese has been extradited to the United States to face up to 40 years in prison for operating an international romance scam that defrauded victims across multiple countries. The scheme involved creating fake online identities and fabricated relationships to manipulate victims into sending money, with a co-defendant helping to launder the proceeds through a network of bank accounts disguised as export companies. To protect yourself, be wary of online romantic partners who quickly build emotional connections, avoid sending money to people you've only met online, and verify identities through video calls or in-person meetings before any financial transactions.
punchng.com
· 2026-05-20
A Nigerian man named Samuel Ugberaese has been extradited to the United States and faces up to 40 years in prison for operating a romance scam ring between 2014 and 2018 that targeted American women, primarily in North Carolina. The scam involved false promises and stories designed to trick victims into sending money, with accomplices using fake business accounts to launder the stolen funds. People should be wary of online romantic relationships involving requests for money or financial assistance from individuals they haven't met in person.
arise.tv
· 2026-05-20
A Nigerian national, Samuel Ugberaese, has been extradited to the United States and arrested for operating an international romance scam that targeted elderly victims, defrauding them through fake emotional relationships and fabricated stories to extract money. Working with accomplices, Ugberaese allegedly laundered the stolen funds through bank accounts linked to fake export companies to conceal their origin. Elderly individuals should be cautious of online relationships with people claiming to need money urgently, verify the identities of new contacts through independent means, and never send money to strangers regardless of their story.
forbes.com
· 2026-05-09
Imposter scams—where fraudsters pretend to be trusted entities like the IRS, businesses, or loved ones—have ranked as the #1 scam for nine consecutive years, with the FTC receiving over one million reports in 2025 and losses jumping nearly 20% to $3.5 billion. Government imposter scams surged 40%, particularly fake toll collection messages sent via text that create false urgency to pressure victims into immediate payment through gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency. To protect yourself, never respond to unsolicited messages demanding payment; instead, contact the relevant agency directly using official phone numbers or websites to verify any claims before taking action.
theregister.com
· 2026-05-06
Romance fraudsters stole £102 million from UK victims in 2025, averaging £280,000 per day, with individual losses sometimes reaching £1 million, according to City of London Police figures. The scams disproportionately affected people aged 55-74, with criminals using fake social media profiles to build fake relationships before requesting money for invented emergencies or investments. To protect yourself, be wary of unsolicited online affection, requests to avoid video calls, sudden investment pitches, and always seek a second opinion from trusted friends or family before sending money to anyone you've only met online.
pilotonline.com
· 2026-05-02
A Nigerian man named Habeeb Anibaba has been charged with bank fraud after orchestrating romance scams that stole over $1.3 million from Norfolk, Virginia's city bank account. Operating under fake identities like "James Harold" and "Zoey Chase," Anibaba targeted women across the U.S. by posing as an oil engineer, gaining their trust, then convincing them to access the city's corporate banking information and transfer funds to him via Venmo, PayPal, cryptocurrency, and prepaid cards. People should be cautious of online romantic interests who quickly ask for financial help or banking access, verify any requests through official channels before moving money, and report suspicious activity to authorities immediately.
yahoo.com
· 2026-05-02
A Nigerian man named Habeeb Anibaba was charged with bank fraud for orchestrating romance scams that stole over $1.3 million from the city of Norfolk's corporate bank account. Between August 2019 and July 2020, Anibaba posed as an American oil engineer named "James Harold" or "Zoey Chase" to gain the trust of dozens of women across the U.S., then manipulated them into transferring money from the city's account via various methods including Venmo, PayPal, Bitcoin, and prepaid cards. To protect yourself: be extremely cautious of online romantic relationships, especially with people claiming financial emergencies or overseas work situations; verify identities through video calls; and never give anyone access to bank accounts or financial information, even if they claim to be trusted contacts.
bangkokpost.com
· 2026-04-30
Thai and Nigerian authorities arrested four suspects in Pattaya who were running a romance scam operation using fake bank accounts to steal money from victims and launder it overseas. The scheme involved a Thai woman who recruited bank accounts and handled withdrawals, earning thousands of baht daily while the Nigerian men managed the scams targeting victims online. To protect yourself, be cautious of romantic interests from strangers online who quickly ask for money or financial help, verify the identity of new romantic contacts through video calls, and never share banking information or allow others to use your accounts.
rhinotimes.com
· 2026-04-29
The Guilford County Sheriff's Office is launching a free four-week "Senior Academy" program in May to help older adults and their caregivers recognize and avoid fraud and scams, which increasingly target seniors. The hands-on program will cover topics including scam prevention, home safety, elder abuse awareness, and legal readiness through interactive sessions rather than lectures, with participants receiving a certificate upon completion of all four weekly sessions. Seniors should be aware of common scams like fake law enforcement demanding payment via gift cards, and this academy offers practical, real-world advice on spotting warning signs and protecting themselves.
internazionale.it
· 2026-04-29
Swiss and German police arrested 10 suspected members of the Nigeria-linked Black Axe crime gang who were accused of running romance scams and other cyberfraud schemes that caused millions of Swiss francs in damages, along with money laundering operations. The Black Axe organization, which evolved from a student fraternity in the 1970s, has become a structured criminal group specializing in financial cybercrime targeting victims across Europe. To protect yourself, be cautious of romantic relationships that develop quickly online with strangers requesting money, verify the identity of people you meet online through video calls, and never send money to unfamiliar individuals regardless of their story.
aol.com
· 2026-04-17
Emuobosan Emanuella Hall, a 45-year-old Nigerian love scammer, fled before starting her eight-year prison sentence in March 2025 after defrauding mostly elderly women of nearly $1 million. Hall and her accomplice posed as wealthy generals and entrepreneurs on social media, building trust with victims before requesting money through encrypted messaging apps. Federal authorities have issued a warrant for her arrest, with her last confirmed location being Atlanta's airport before she disappeared; residents should be cautious of romance scams on social media and verify the identity of online contacts before sharing personal information or sending money.
kucoin.com
· 2026-04-05
Scammers are impersonating SEC officials on social media and text messages to trick investors into providing personal information, paying upfront fees, or investing in fraudulent schemes. The SEC warns that these fraudsters use official-looking branding and real employee names to appear credible, with tactics ranging from fake stock tips to promises of recovering lost money. To protect yourself, be skeptical of unsolicited investment offers or financial advice from social media and text messages, verify any SEC communication directly through the official SEC website, and never share personal or financial information with unverified sources.
hsvvoice.com
· 2026-03-18
Fraud against elderly victims can drain life savings in moments, and can even lead to loss of life.
Always be alert. Fraudsters seem like nice people. Others are family members or...
iclg.com
· 2026-03-14
Pandemic profiteers who stole millions through shady schemes and laundered the proceeds have been brought to justice in the Centennial State.
Following news that the UK government...
ofb.biz
· 2026-03-05
If there is anything as embarrassing as confessing one’s sins it has to be confessing one’s stupidities.
Yet here we are. Instead of describing how well my cool new Starlink-based...
washingtonjewishweek.com
· 2026-03-05
Everyone has been told not to share personal information with strangers or give money for a scenario that seems too good to be true. Yet during 2024, scammers stole $12.5 billion f...
saharareporters.com
· 2026-03-03
Authorities also stated that Mba is expected to face removal proceedings after completing his prison term.
A 40-year-old Nigerian man who illegally resided in Houston, United Stat...
gazettengr.com
· 2026-02-28
“Now, Mba has prison to look forward to, followed by a one-way ticket back to Nigeria,” U.S. attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei said.
“Now, Mba has prison to look forward to, followed by...
fox26houston.com
· 2026-02-27
The U.S. Department of Justice seal. (Samuel Corum/Bloomberg via Getty Images)
HOUSTON - A man who was in Houston illegally has been sentenced to nearly 20 years in federal prison...
thesun.co.uk
· 2026-02-27
BETH Hyland was instantly smitten with Richard Daub’s Tinder profile – their interests were eerily aligned and he looked drop dead gorgeous. She swiped right and was thrilled to se...
thesun.co.uk
· 2026-02-23
A 53-year-old tech professional and fraud specialist named Tracy Cray intentionally strung along a romance scammer for nine months after recognizing classic con tactics on a dating site, including love bombing, requests to move to private messaging, and eventually requests for money. The scammer, posing as "Richy," used stolen photos from a real businessman in Florida and employed typical romance scam methods to try to extract money from victims. For people using dating apps, key warning signs include pressure to move conversations off-platform quickly, excessive declarations of love from someone you've just met, vague employment details with no online presence, and sudden requests for money due to emergencies or business problems.
thetimes.com
· 2026-02-18
"Pig-butchering" romance scams are costing Americans over $1 billion annually, with scammers creating fake online dating profiles to build emotional trust with victims before asking them to invest money or provide personal financial information. Beth Hyland, a 53-year-old Michigan woman, fell victim to one such scam when she matched with a fake profile on Tinder and developed what she thought was a romantic relationship with someone claiming to be a construction manager. To protect yourself, be cautious of online dating matches who quickly profess feelings, avoid sharing financial information with people you've only met online, and verify profiles through reverse image searches or video calls before developing emotional or financial ties.
gulfcoastnewsnow.com
· 2026-02-17
# Email Scam Summary
Millions of people lose billions of dollars annually to email scams, which have evolved from simple spam to sophisticated phishing attempts that impersonate legitimate companies like Microsoft, Amazon, and Google to steal passwords and financial information. John Joyce, a technology consultant, warns that scammers now use AI-improved grammar and official-looking logos to make fraudulent emails appear authentic, exploiting the fact that people receive over 120 emails daily and may click carelessly. To protect yourself, Joyce recommends updating software regularly, pausing before clicking links, being skeptical of all messages—especially unsolicited offers—and remembering that legitimate riches never come through email.
pennwatch.org
· 2026-02-09
# Romance Scam Summary
A woman named Kate Kleinert lost tens of thousands of dollars to a romance scam, where scammers pose as potential romantic partners online to steal money from victims. The podcast "The High Price of Love: Uncovering Romance Scams" features Kate's story and expert advice from AARP Pennsylvania to help people recognize and avoid these schemes. If you're dating online, be cautious of new suitors asking for money, verify their identities before developing emotional connections, and report any suspicious activity to AARP's Fraud Watch Network at aarp.org/fraudwatchnetwork.
townhall.com
· 2026-02-08
A Nigerian man was sentenced to over 8 years in prison for leading an international inheritance fraud scheme that targeted over 400 elderly and vulnerable Americans, stealing more than $6 million by falsely claiming they had inherited money and requesting upfront fees. The scammers sent hundreds of thousands of personalized letters impersonating Spanish bank representatives, convincing victims to send money for supposed delivery fees and taxes before receiving their "inheritance." To protect yourself, be skeptical of unsolicited inheritance claims, never send money upfront for inheritances you didn't expect, and verify any financial claims directly with banks or lawyers using contact information you find independently—not information provided in the message.
bitdefender.com
· 2026-02-08
A Romanian businesswoman was defrauded of $2.5 million by scammers posing as Dubai's Crown Prince and his financial manager in a sophisticated two-year romance scam involving a fake banking website and repeated "fee" demands. Investigators traced the operation to a Nigerian mansion and identified the perpetrator as Nzube Henry Ike, whose scheme eventually unraveled when his accomplices fell out over dividing the stolen money and exposed him. To protect yourself: be suspicious of unsolicited investment offers from strangers online, never send money for "fees" to access funds you haven't verified through official channels, and use reverse image searches to verify the identity of people you meet online.
justice.gov
· 2026-02-07
A Nigerian man was sentenced to over 8 years in prison for leading a multimillion-dollar inheritance fraud scheme that targeted elderly and vulnerable Americans, defrauding more than 400 victims of $6 million over seven years. The scam worked by sending personalized letters falsely claiming recipients had inherited money, then requesting upfront fees for supposed taxes and delivery costs before the victims could access their inheritance. To protect yourself, be extremely skeptical of unsolicited inheritance claims, never send money upfront for promised inheritances, and report suspicious communications to the Federal Trade Commission or local law enforcement.
cowboystatedaily.com
· 2026-01-31
Scammers across Wyoming have stolen over $4.6 million from residents by convincing victims to deposit cash into cryptocurrency ATMs, which the criminals then use to quickly transfer and hide the money through multiple accounts, making it nearly impossible to trace. The con artists—often operating from overseas—use common scam tactics similar to those from years past (like impersonating Nigerian princes), but now direct victims to crypto ATMs instead of gift cards or money orders. To protect yourself, be extremely cautious if anyone asks you to send money via cryptocurrency ATM or any untraceable payment method, and always verify requests through official channels before sending any funds.
gloucestertimes.com
· 2026-01-30
Modern scams have become increasingly sophisticated, using tactics like phishing, smishing, and vishing to deceive people into revealing money or personal information, with older adults being particularly targeted because scammers exploit their politeness and trust rather than any lack of intelligence. To protect yourself, remain skeptical of unsolicited contacts, verify requests through official channels before sharing personal or financial information, and consider consulting with trusted family members or local aging services before making financial decisions.
punchng.com
· 2026-01-28
A man in Lagos, Nigeria has been arraigned in Federal High Court for allegedly running a romance scam that defrauded two victims of $7,000 between 2019 and 2024. The suspect, Samson Onaolapo, is accused of impersonating an American named Scott Spark via email to convince the victims to send money. To protect yourself from similar scams, be cautious of online relationships that quickly ask for money, verify the identity of people you meet online through video calls or other means, and never send funds to people you haven't met in person.
nigerianbulletin.com
· 2026-01-24
Thai police arrested 13 men—11 Nigerians and 2 Ivorians—who were running an international romance scam that defrauded victims by creating fake social media profiles and manipulating people into sending money, with one Thai victim losing over 2 million baht. The gang used sophisticated tactics including cryptocurrency and money laundering through local accounts, and police seized phones and computers during a raid in January 2026. To protect yourself, be cautious of online relationships with people you haven't met in person, especially if they ask for money, and verify identities through video calls before engaging financially.
punchng.com
· 2026-01-22
Thai police arrested 11 Nigerians and 2 Ivorians who were running an international romance scam operation from a condominium, targeting victims through fake Facebook profiles posing as engineers or professionals. The scam began after a Thai woman reported being defrauded of over two million baht by someone claiming to be a Chinese engineer who built a romantic relationship with her before requesting money transfers. People should be cautious of online romantic relationships with strangers, especially those requesting money or financial assistance, and verify identities through video calls or meeting in person before sending any funds.
tvcnews.tv
· 2026-01-16
# Crypto Romance Scam Summary
A Nigerian man named Friday Audu is accused of masterminding a massive international romance and cryptocurrency investment scam that led to the arrest of 792 suspects (599 Nigerians and 193 foreigners) in December 2024. The scam operated through a company called Genting International Ltd, which posed as a gaming business while actually running cryptocurrency fraud and money laundering schemes that targeted victims globally. To protect yourself, be extremely cautious of unsolicited investment opportunities—especially cryptocurrency offers—and romance connections from people you've never met in person, and always verify that companies are legitimate before sending any money.
city-journal.org
· 2026-01-13
Foreign criminal gangs operating on the West Coast are running sophisticated fraud schemes targeting Americans, with the most common being credit card theft and elder fraud. According to law enforcement, organized groups—particularly from Romania—steal credit cards from gyms and other public places, then use mobile equipment in their vehicles to commit fraud before moving along major corridors like I-5. To protect yourself, experts advise monitoring your credit card activity closely, securing your phone and cards at gyms and public venues, and being cautious about unsolicited contacts, especially regarding financial or personal information.
gbhackers.com
· 2026-01-13
Sophisticated criminal networks operating primarily in Southeast Asia have dramatically scaled up "pig butchering" romance and investment scams through specialized service providers that supply tools, stolen data, and technical infrastructure similar to cybercrime-as-a-service models. Tens of thousands of forced laborers in Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, and the Philippines are being exploited to conduct these scams, which use stolen personal information—including bank records and travel history—to target wealthy victims with precision. To protect yourself, be extremely cautious of unsolicited romantic or investment opportunities online, verify the identity of anyone offering financial advice through independent channels, and never share personal financial information with people you've only met digitally.
cnet.com
· 2026-01-08
# LinkedIn Scam Summary
Scammers are increasingly using LinkedIn to target job seekers with fake recruiter messages and fraudulent job offers, often using AI-generated content to make their pitches appear legitimate and convincing. Red flags to watch for include recruiters with suspiciously low follower counts, job offers that don't match your background or seem too good to be true, and requests for upfront payment for services like book marketing. To protect yourself, avoid clicking links in unsolicited messages, verify recruiter profiles directly through LinkedIn's official site, and report suspicious accounts to the platform.
businessday.ng
· 2026-01-07
Nigerian police arrested 20-year-old Essien Emmanuel Akpama at Lagos airport in January 2026 after months of investigation into romance and celebrity scams that defrauded American victims of over $1 million. The suspect used fake identities and cryptocurrency schemes to trick victims into sending money for fake property purchases and gift cards, with one 47-year-old woman losing $1 million alone. To protect yourself, be extremely cautious of online relationships involving requests for money or cryptocurrency, verify celebrity identities through official channels, and never send funds to unknown individuals regardless of their story.
saturdayeveningpost.com
· 2026-01-05
# Romance Scams Summary
Romance scams have become increasingly sophisticated and costly, with Americans losing $1.3 billion in 2022 alone—more than double the previous year's losses. Scammers build fake emotional relationships with victims (particularly targeting elderly people, women, and widowed individuals, often through social media) and then request money under false pretenses, with criminals now using AI-generated deepfake videos and voice cloning to appear convincing during video calls. To protect yourself, be skeptical of romantic interests who quickly ask for money, verify identities through independent means before sending funds, and avoid sharing personal information or video chatting with people you haven't met in person.
mississippivalleypublishing.com
· 2025-12-31
# Scam Alert Summary
During the holidays, scammers are targeting Iowans with fake inheritance letters claiming they've won money from distant relatives and need to contact a Canadian law firm to claim it. The scam works by asking victims to pay upfront fees and requesting personal information like bank account numbers and Social Security numbers, which can lead to identity theft. To protect yourself and loved ones, delete suspicious emails or letters promising unexpected money, never share personal financial information with strangers, and remember that legitimate law firms never ask for payment upfront to access inheritance money.
the420.in
· 2025-12-28
In 2025, organized international crime syndicates caused an estimated $10.5 trillion in global cybercrime damages—more than any single country's GDP except the US and China—marking a dramatic shift from individual hackers to industrialized criminal operations. The widespread adoption of artificial intelligence has made sophisticated fraud accessible to low-level criminals, who now create convincing deepfakes and execute psychological attacks like "digital arrests" that exploit human trust rather than just technical vulnerabilities. To protect yourself, remain skeptical of unexpected communications from authority figures or executives, verify requests through independent channels before sharing sensitive information, and stay informed about AI-generated deepfakes and social engineering tactics.
punchng.com
· 2025-12-28
Ghanaian authorities arrested 141 Nigerian nationals in coordinated raids after discovering they were running cyber-enabled financial scams including mobile money fraud, romance scams, and business email compromise schemes from houses in Accra. The operation recovered 38 laptops and 150 mobile phones used in the crimes, and also arrested a local landlord who knowingly housed about 100 of the suspects. To protect yourself, remain vigilant about suspicious digital activities, be cautious of unsolicited romantic or business contacts online, and report any suspected fraud to authorities.
nigerianbulletin.com
· 2025-12-28
Ghanaian authorities arrested 141 Nigerian nationals in a major cybercrime crackdown in Accra, targeting gangs involved in wire fraud, romance scams, sextortion, and other financial crimes that victimize people globally. The joint operation recovered dozens of laptops and hundreds of mobile phones used in the schemes and also arrested a local landlord who housed the criminals. To protect yourself, be cautious of romantic advances from strangers online, verify business communications through official channels, and never send money or personal information to unfamiliar contacts.
ksltv.com
· 2025-12-26
In 2025, KSL Investigations exposed several significant issues affecting Utah residents, including the overuse of seclusion rooms in schools for children with behavioral issues and failures by the parole board to notify crime victims about their perpetrators' hearings. These investigations prompted meaningful reforms: lawmakers enacted restrictions on school seclusion practices (including a kindergarten ban), and the state implemented a new victim-centered notification system for parole proceedings. Residents concerned about their children's school practices or crime victim rights should contact local school districts and the Utah Board of Pardons and Parole to understand these new protections.
thestar.com.my
· 2025-12-26
Ghanaian authorities arrested 48 suspected Nigerian scammers in a raid near Accra who were running romance scams, investment fraud, and impersonation schemes targeting victims worldwide. The operation reflects a broader problem in West Africa where young people with limited economic opportunities turn to online fraud, while Ghana itself has become a target for foreign scammers including Chinese nationals. To protect yourself, be cautious of unsolicited romantic advances online, verify investment opportunities through official channels, and never send money to unknown individuals or unverified businesses.
saharareporters.com
· 2025-12-25
Ghanaian authorities arrested 48 Nigerian nationals in Accra for operating online fraud schemes including romance scams, investment fraud, and impersonation schemes, seizing 54 laptops and other equipment during the raid. The operation is part of a broader regional effort to combat organized cybercrime that has affected people across West Africa and beyond. To protect yourself, be cautious of unsolicited online investment opportunities and romantic advances from unknown contacts, verify the legitimacy of investment platforms before sending money, and report suspicious activity to local authorities.
punchng.com
· 2025-12-25
Ghanaian authorities arrested 48 Nigerians in a coordinated raid for operating romance scams, online investment fraud, and other cybercrime schemes targeting victims online. The operation, led by Ghana's Cyber Security Authority in collaboration with police and national security, recovered dozens of laptops, phones, and internet devices used in the illegal operations. To protect yourself, be cautious of romantic advances from strangers online, verify investment opportunities through official channels, and never send money to people you haven't met in person or to unverified investment schemes.
thetrumpet.ng
· 2025-12-25
Ghana arrested 48 Nigerians in a coordinated security operation for allegedly running romance scams, online investment fraud, and other cybercrime schemes, with authorities seizing 54 laptops and numerous phones used in the crimes. This crackdown comes shortly after Ghana deported 42 other Nigerians for fraud and related offenses, reflecting intensified efforts to combat cybercriminal networks operating in the country. To protect yourself, be cautious of unsolicited romantic advances online, investment offers from unknown sources, and requests for personal information or money from people you haven't met in person.
uk.news.yahoo.com
· 2025-12-25
Ghana's authorities arrested nearly 50 Nigerian nationals in Accra during a raid targeting online scammers involved in romance scams, investment fraud, impersonation schemes, and illegal gold trading. The operation highlights a broader regional problem, as Nigeria has become known as a hub for internet fraud while also being targeted by scammers itself, with similar large-scale arrests occurring in Lagos earlier this year. To protect yourself, be cautious of unsolicited romantic advances or investment opportunities online, verify the identity of people you meet digitally, and never send money to unknown individuals or invest in schemes you cannot independently verify.
trtafrika.com
· 2025-12-25
Ghanaian authorities arrested nearly 50 suspected Nigerian cybercriminals in a raid targeting online scammers operating romance cons, investment fraud, and identity theft schemes. The operation recovered dozens of computers and phones used to defraud victims. To protect yourself, be cautious of unsolicited romantic advances or investment opportunities online, verify identities through independent channels, and never send money to unknown contacts.
newsghana.com.gh
· 2025-12-23
# Romance Fraud Summary
Abu Trica, a 34-year-old Ghanaian socialite, has been arrested and appeared in court under heavy security on charges of orchestrating an online romance scam that defrauded elderly Americans of approximately $8 million. Working with accomplices, he allegedly posed as romantic interests to extract money from vulnerable victims in the United States since 2023, and now faces extradition to the U.S. where he could receive up to 20 years in prison if convicted. To protect yourself, be cautious of online romantic relationships with people you've never met in person, especially those who quickly ask for money or claim financial emergencies, and verify identities through video calls before sharing personal information or funds.
ksl.com
· 2025-12-22
Inheritance scams are resurging, with scammers contacting people via email, messages, and letters claiming they've inherited money from deceased relatives or unknown wealthy people. The scams typically ask victims to pay upfront fees or provide personal and financial information, promising they can claim nonexistent inheritances worth thousands or millions of dollars. To protect yourself, be skeptical of unsolicited messages about unexpected money, never pay fees upfront for inheritances, and verify claims through official channels rather than trusting the scammer directly.
capitalethiopia.com
· 2025-12-21
The scam industry has evolved from petty crimes into a sophisticated, borderless operation that costs the global economy billions annually and now funds organized crime and destabilizes communities. Digital technology—including social media, cryptocurrency, AI deepfakes, and gig economy platforms—has made it easier for scammers to operate at scale, from forced labor operations running romance scams in Southeast Asia to boiler-room fraud targeting North Americans and pyramid schemes preying on economically vulnerable communities worldwide. To protect yourself, remain skeptical of unsolicited messages and offers that seem too good to be true, verify contact information independently before sharing personal or financial information, and report suspected scams to local authorities.
mirror.co.uk
· 2025-12-20
Nigel Baker, a 56-year-old serial romance fraudster from Essex, was sentenced to 17 years in prison—Britain's longest sentence for romance fraud—after conning five women out of nearly £1 million between 2012 and 2020. Baker created multiple fake dating profiles under different names and personas, targeting vulnerable middle-aged women including professionals like bankers, nurses, and police officers, then manipulated them into giving him money for his gambling addiction and lavish lifestyle. Victims and authorities highlight that red flags included inconsistencies in his stories, pressure to send money, reluctance to meet in person, and false claims about his occupation and personal details—warning others to verify information about online dating matches and be cautious of anyone quickly requesting financial help.
goldrushcam.com
· 2025-12-15
# Nevada County Inheritance Mail Scam Alert
Nevada County authorities are warning residents about a fraudulent mail scam targeting vulnerable adults, particularly seniors, claiming they've inherited millions from a life insurance policy. The official-looking letters falsely claim the recipient shares a surname and nationality with a deceased person and offer to split 90% of a supposed $10 million estate between the recipient and a law firm. Residents should be skeptical of unsolicited inheritance claims and contact Nevada County Adult Services (530-265-1639) or the Sheriff's Office if they receive suspicious mail or suspect they've been targeted.
cedirates.com
· 2025-12-14
Ghanaian authorities arrested 32 suspects involved in an organized romance scam operation in Kasoa that defrauded victims across multiple countries by building fake emotional relationships online. The Cyber Security Authority conducted the raid as part of a broader government crackdown on cybercrime, which has been surging in Ghana and affecting both local and international victims. To protect yourself, be cautious of online relationships that quickly turn romantic, avoid sending money to people you've never met in person, and report suspicious activity to local authorities or cybercrime agencies.
gistmania.com
· 2025-12-14
# Romance Scam Summary
A 40-year-old Nigerian man, Daniel Chima Inweregbu, has been sentenced to 33 months in prison for running a romance scam that defrauded at least four American women of over $405,000 between 2017 and 2018. The scheme involved posing as a fictitious man named "Larry Pham" on social media and dating platforms to build fake romantic relationships and convince victims to send money. To protect yourself, be cautious of online romantic interests who quickly ask for money, verify identities through video calls, and never send funds to unknown accounts, especially for emergencies or travel-related expenses.
nigerianbulletin.com
· 2025-12-14
# Romance Scam Arrests in Ghana
Ghanaian authorities arrested 32 Nigerians in a major crackdown on a romance scam operation based in Kasoa Tuba, working together through the country's Cyber Security Authority and National Security. The scam victims—primarily people seeking romantic relationships online—lost money to fraudsters who posed as potential partners to extract cash. To protect yourself, be cautious of online relationships that move quickly toward requests for money, verify the identity of people you meet online through video calls, and never send money to strangers regardless of their story.
thetrumpet.ng
· 2025-12-14
Ghana's government arrested 32 Nigerian nationals in a coordinated raid targeting an organized romance scam operation, with authorities recovering evidence for forensic analysis as part of an intensified crackdown on cybercrime syndicates using the country as a base. The scammers were operating from Kasoa Tuba in northern Ghana and targeting victims through fake romantic relationships to steal money, representing part of a broader pattern of cyber fraud activities linked to foreign nationals. To protect yourself, be cautious of online romantic relationships that quickly escalate to requests for money, verify identities through video calls, and report suspicious activity to law enforcement or platforms hosting the scams.
businessofhome.com
· 2025-12-13
Designers Bill Brockschmidt and Courtney Coleman lost $6,900 in a sophisticated online antiques scam after a criminal hacked into a seller's email account on Proantic (a European antiques marketplace), impersonated the seller, and fabricated fake shipping company communications to appear legitimate. To protect yourself, verify sellers through multiple independent sources beyond the marketplace listing, be wary of requests for wire transfers or additional fees after initial payment, and contact sellers directly through phone numbers or addresses you independently confirm rather than relying solely on email. This scam was notably more convincing than typical fraud because the communications used proper grammar, official-looking headers, and realistic transaction details rather than obvious red flags.
saharareporters.com
· 2025-12-12
A 31-year-old Ghanaian social media influencer known as "Abu Trica" has been arrested for orchestrating a romance scam that defrauded elderly Americans of over $8 million using AI-generated fake identities and intimate conversations to build trust before requesting money for fake emergencies. The suspect allegedly used accomplices in both the US and Ghana to launder the stolen funds, which he then flaunted on social media through luxury purchases that eventually drew investigative attention. Authorities advise seniors to be cautious of online relationships that quickly turn personal, to verify identities through video calls, and to be skeptical of requests for money from people they've only met online.
aol.com
· 2025-12-10
Seniors are increasingly targeted by scammers who exploit their savings, home ownership, and relative unfamiliarity with technology to commit fraud. Common scams include unsolicited calls selling unnecessary products like medical-alert devices, lottery/prize schemes requiring upfront fees, and fake mobile health clinics that bill insurance and Medicare using stolen personal information. To protect yourself, be skeptical of unsolicited calls and emails, never pay upfront fees for prizes you've won, verify any medical services through official channels, and report suspicious activity to the FTC.
motorbiscuit.com
· 2025-12-08
An 80-year-old woman in Hokkaido, Japan lost approximately $6,700 (1 million yen) to a romance scammer who posed as an astronaut claiming to be in space and in need of oxygen. The scammer exploited her emotional connection developed through online communication by fabricating an increasingly implausible story about being under attack on a spaceship and needing money for oxygen. Japanese authorities warn elderly residents to be suspicious of cash demands from social media contacts and to report such incidents to police, particularly given Japan's aging population vulnerability to romance scams.
ripplesnigeria.com
· 2025-12-08
**Summary:**
Daniel Chima Inweregbu, a 40-year-old Nigerian national, pleaded guilty in August 2025 to operating a romance scam that defrauded multiple American women of over $405,000 between July 2017 and December 2018. Inweregbu and his co-conspirators created fake social media profiles under the alias "Larry Pham" to build romantic relationships with middle-aged female victims, then solicited money under false pretenses and laundered the proceeds through intermediary accounts. He faces up to 20 years in prison and substantial fines upon sentencing in December 2025.