05/29/2026
Yesterday I received one of those phone calls that reminds me why StuTech exists.
While driving, the office phone rang. The caller was a resident from a local 55+ community where StuTech regularly provides technology and cybersecurity presentations. She was concerned about a friend and wanted some advice.
As she explained the situation, the warning signs became very clear.
Her friend had met someone online through a dating site and had developed what she believed was a genuine relationship. Unfortunately, based on everything I was told, this appears to be a classic romance scam, also known as catfishing.
What is catfishing?
Catfishing occurs when someone creates a fake online identity and pretends to be someone they are not. They often use stolen photos, fake names, and elaborate stories to gain trust and build an emotional connection.
A romance scam takes that deception one step further. The scammer spends weeks or even months building a relationship, saying all the right things, making their victim feel special, loved, and understood. Then comes the request for money, gift cards, cryptocurrency, investments, emergency assistance, or some other financial favor.
The goal was never love.
The goal was always the money.
As if that wasn’t concerning enough, the caller also shared that her friend had previously fallen victim to what appears to have been a Ponzi scheme and believes she will be receiving her lost money back in the next few days.
Sadly, that is rarely how these situations end.
Scammers often target victims repeatedly because they know the person is vulnerable and hopeful. Sometimes they even pretend to be recovery specialists who claim they can recover lost funds—for a fee. That’s just another scam.
So I’ll say it again for those who need to hear it:
There are a lot of bad people on the Internet.
They hide in plain sight on social media, dating sites, messaging apps, investment groups, and even online games.
They seem kind.
They seem trustworthy.
They seem caring.
But many are simply looking for an opportunity to rob you blind.
Please be careful.
Verify before you trust.
Talk to a friend, family member, financial advisor, or someone you trust before sending money, sharing personal information, or making investment decisions based on an online relationship.
And remember:
If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
If there is enough interest, I’d be happy to host another free StuTech presentation specifically focused on romance scams, catfishing, investment fraud, and the latest scams targeting seniors.
Stay safe. Stay skeptical. Stay protected.
🔒 Secured. Supported. Simple. StuTech.
📞 480-420-0580
