According to Forbes, romance scams saw $139 million in losses reported to the Federal Trade Commission by senior citizens. The $139 million in losses seen in 2020 is a $55 million increase from 2019 reports.

National Consumer Law Center Attorney Odette Williamson explained to Forbes that “widespread illness and death combined with the social isolation and distancing measures brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic created fertile ground for the proliferation of certain scams primarily aimed at older adults.”

Unfortunately, the article explains, romance scams are particularly difficult for both victims and law enforcement. Oftentimes, there is not enough information to help law enforcement find/prosecute the perpetrators; and for the victims, it can be more difficult losing the connection they thought they had.

It is essential we all take the proper precautions to protect ourselves and our loved ones; this means following up on any questionable information, remaining aware of any prevalent scams in the area, and reporting anything suspicious to the proper authorities.