How can I tell if someone is a love scammer?

Common signs: you met online, they never video call or meet, the relationship moves very fast, and eventually they ask for money for one emergency after another. Someone who genuinely cares about you will not keep asking for money.

They sent a gift but I must pay customs tax first. Is this real?

This is a common love scam tactic followed by a parcel scam. Do not pay. Customs does not contact recipients on WhatsApp to request payment into a personal account. Check yourself through official customs or courier channels.

Can I make a police report for a love scam?

Yes. Report it at a police station with the chat history and transfer receipts, or call 997 if money has only just been transferred. Reports help the police investigate and list the scammer's accounts.

Guide

Love scams: romance fraud online

A love scam is a fraud in which the scammer builds an online romantic relationship, often posing as a professional working overseas, then asks for money for an emergency, to release a gift, or to join an investment. The key sign: they can never meet or video call, but often need money. Never transfer money to someone you have not met in person.

How to report a scam →

Already transferred money? Call 997 (NSRC) now — 24 hours. How to report a scam →

The usual love scam pattern

Meeting on Facebook, Instagram, a dating app or an online game.
Claiming to be an engineer, doctor, soldier or businessperson working abroad.
The relationship moves fast, with sweet words and promises of marriage.
An 'emergency' appears: illness, being held at an airport, or tax due on a gift.
You are invited to invest in a crypto or forex platform said to be very profitable.

Warning signs

There is always a reason not to video call or meet.
Profile photos look too perfect or are taken from someone else's account.
You are asked to keep the relationship secret from family.
You are asked for money, gift cards, or to receive money into your account on their behalf.

The link with parcel scams

Love scams are often followed by a 'gift' that is supposedly stuck at customs. Someone posing as a customs officer or courier then asks for tax or a fine. This is part of the same fraud.

What to do

Stop paying and keep all chats, photos and account details. Check the recipient's account number in SemakMule. If you have already transferred money, call 997 (NSRC) quickly and tell your bank. The chances are better if you act fast, but recovery is not guaranteed.

Many victims feel ashamed. You are not alone, and reporting helps protect others.

Frequently asked questions

How can I tell if someone is a love scammer?: Common signs: you met online, they never video call or meet, the relationship moves very fast, and eventually they ask for money for one emergency after another. Someone who genuinely cares about you will not keep asking for money.
They sent a gift but I must pay customs tax first. Is this real?: This is a common love scam tactic followed by a parcel scam. Do not pay. Customs does not contact recipients on WhatsApp to request payment into a personal account. Check yourself through official customs or courier channels.
Can I make a police report for a love scam?: Yes. Report it at a police station with the chat history and transfer receipts, or call 997 if money has only just been transferred. Reports help the police investigate and list the scammer's accounts.

Short guides to the scam tactics common in Malaysia, how to check bank accounts, phone numbers and licences, and what to do right away if you have been hit.