A woman was allegedly scammed and later become a victim of extortion by a foreigner she met on a dating app.
According to John Consulta’s exclusive report on 24 Oras Weekend, “Sarah” (not her real name) met an African American on a dating app, but the nearly two-week romance turned into a nightmare.
One day before their planned weekend getaway to the province—where Sarah had already given money—she received a message from the foreigner while he was in the furniture store.
“[He said] both his cards were not working, and he needed me to transfer money to him. I already had a bad feeling about it, that the amount was quite large,” said Sarah.
When she did not send money, the foreigner started threatening her.
“[Y]ou’re a nice person and I didn’t mean no harm since you wanna be rude to me, you have until 12am send 40k to the [mobile wallet] and I’ll delete your nudes or watch me send it to all your friends on facebook [sic],” said one text from the man.
Filipina scammed by foreigner she met on dating app
“I have deactivated my accounts, even my social media, because he was able to get into my social media. He has checked my contacts. That’s what he blackmailed me after I wouldn’t transfer more money to him,” said Sarah.
This is said to be “classic” catfishing, according to NBI Cybercrime division chief Chris Paz. “This is the creation of a fake online account or profile in order to become a victim, and eventually the purpose of this is to make money or ask for money from the would-be victim,” said Paz.
Even verified accounts can be compromised. NBI Cybercrime is investigating the case.
“Mag-ingat po tayo, at lagi tayo maging mapanuri. Huwag na huwag po nating ibigay ang personal information sa mga ka-online na date natin,” said Paz.
“Pag iyong online boyfriend ay nanghihingi na ng pera ay sigurado po red flag iyan, scam po iyan. Huwag na huwag po kayo magbibigay ng pera at huwag kayo maniniwala sa anong drama.”
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