Minnesota woman discovers romance scam on Facebook dating – Valley News Live

NEW YORK MILLS, Minn. — As Valentine’s Day approaches and people turn to online dating in search of connection, a Minnesota woman’s experience highlights the growing threat of romance scams targeting users on dating platforms. Julie Verdugt, 61, of New York Mills thought she had found a romantic connection when she met 57-year-old “Bratt Erick Smith” on Facebook dating. The profile seemed legitimate until requests for money began appearing in their conversations. “He just seemed legit, definitely fell for the charm, and his words,” Verdugt said. Warning signs emerge The relationship progressed from warm conversations to financial requests within days. Smith initially asked Verdugt for a $200 loan, promising to pay back the money with interest. “He said well do you have $100,” Verdugt said when she declined the larger amount. Paul Benda of the American Bankers Association said urgency and secrecy are key warning signs of romance scams. “If you’re dealing with someone and they want you to keep it a secret? It’s a scam if they’re asking you to add quickly with urgency and this can be romance,” Benda said. “This can be with anyone that’s calling you over the phone almost always that’s a scam.” Profile investigation
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