Beware of Military Romance Scammers and Their Deceptive Tactics
It is crucial to stay vigilant and avoid falling prey to military romance scams. These scammers use a variety of deceptive tactics, making it essential to understand the signs and how to stay safe.
Deceptive Names and Fake Profiles
Scammers can create any name they want and use any photo they desire. Their goal is to deceive you about their military position to see which individuals are less discerning. They utilize names like 'General,' 'Doctor,' or professions that cannot be realistically tied to their locations. A social media conversation with a so-called military general, an oil rigger, or a doctor on deployment is a red flag that could indicate a scam. Just as you should not judge a car by its paint, you should not judge a person's truthfulness by their name or social media profile.
Common Names and Patterns Among Scammers
Scammers do not stick to real names; they often make them up or change them slightly. The names found in online lists of scammers are just the tip of the iceberg. To truly understand the scope of military romance scams, search for terms like 'Military Romance Scams' and 'Scammer Profiles' on Google. By looking at images and profiles, you can see which real military members have become victims of these scams. Scammers often use the same photos under different names, meaning the face may be real, but the story behind it is not.
Specific Names to Be Aware Of
Some names are more common among scammers than others. Searching for names like 'George Cozma,' 'George Lumbaala,' 'Frank W George,' or 'Frank George Walker' and examining related websites can provide a better understanding of the tactics used. These names and others like them are often utilized by individuals pretending to be active members of the military. Always ask for a military email address, which should end in '.mil,' as every soldier is entitled to one. Avoid providing sensitive information that could help the scammers access your accounts.
Stay Safe with Reliable Resources
Scammers can also use the names of real military members. They may use the same picture in multiple profiles or even in the same profile under different names. Websites like offer lists of commonly used pictures, highlighting the need to thoroughly verify the authenticity of a potential military romance.
Conclusion
Recognizing the deceptive tactics of scammers is crucial in today's landscape. By avoiding the allure of convenient and seemingly legitimate names and profiles, you can protect yourself from falling victim to military romance scams. Always be cautious and verify the authenticity of any military affiliation before engaging in any relationship or financial transactions online.