Red flags for romance scams that Ontario police want you to know about [Video]

They might have an exotic job — on an oil rig, as a military member stationed abroad, or as a doctor working with an international organization. 

They’ll claim to feel deeply connected to you, even to love you — but can’t meet up. Ever. 

Then, suddenly, they’ll come to you with an emergency requiring an immediate money transfer, or with an enticing investment opportunity.  

It’s at this point that law enforcement hopes people will think twice and avoid joining an increasingly large group of Canadians: romance scam victims. 

WATCH | A look at who’s conning Canadians: Investigating a long-term con that combines investment schemes, romance scams and crypto fraud. We meet those who’ve lost their life savings and reveal many of the perpetrators are forced to scam.

“It’s really quite prevalent,” said Ontario Provincial Police Det.-Const. John Armit, who has investigated romance scams for the past 11 years. “They are exploiting people who want newfound love.” 

In 2024, …