Romance Scam Awareness Checklist

Romance Scam Checklist

Protect yourself or someone you care about from emotional and financial manipulation. Take this test or print it out for a loved one you suspect is being manipulated by a romance scammer.


Quick Questions: Are These True for You?

Fast & Intense Connection

  • They said “I love you” or “You’re my soulmate” very quickly
  • They contact you multiple times a day — always available, always sweet
  • They shower you with praise, emojis, and promises — it feels “too good to be true”

Can’t Meet or Video Chat

  • They refuse or avoid video calls
  • They give excuses for not visiting — military deployment, oil rig, working overseas
  • They say their camera is broken, or they are too busy

Request for Money or Help

  • They claim to be in a crisis: medical emergency, legal issue, stuck at customs
  • They ask for money, gift cards, Bitcoin, or bank transfers
  • They promise to pay you back soon, but never do

Controlling or Secretive Behavior

  • They tell you to keep the relationship private or secret from friends/family
  • They say, “They just wouldn’t understand our love.”
  • You feel guilt or pressure when you hesitate to help
  • Something Feels Off
  • Their story changes or doesn’t add up
  • Their social media looks empty or recently created
  • You haven’t heard their real voice, seen them live, or met them in person

If You Said Yes to 3 or More Boxes:

You may be communicating with a romance scammer.
They are likely targeting you for money, identity theft, or emotional manipulation.


What To Do Now

  • Stop responding — block them on all platforms.
  • Don’t send money, gift cards, or crypto.
  • Talk to a trusted friend, family member, or community group.
  • Save messages, images, and payment records.
  • Report the scam to:
    • Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (1-888-495-8501)
    • RCMP / Local police
    • The dating or social media platform