BI Warns Hopeful Romantic vs Love Scam, Scammers Amid Valentine’s Day
The Bureau of Immigration warned the public, especially hopeful romantic individuals against “love scam” amid Valentine’s Day.
The BI management has issued another warning about scammers who dupe Filipinos online. BI Commissioner Norman Tansingco renewed his warning about a syndicate that targets Filipino women looking for romances online.
Tansingco has previously received reports of women being courted by syndicate members via the web. According to the authorities, they would pose as foreign residents interested in meeting Filipino ladies. Victims are enticed with minor presents, promises of international travel, and marriage.
“In many cases, the fake foreigner would claim to fly to the Philippines to meet or marry their victim,” said Tansingco.
“However, upon the scammer’s supposed flight to the Philippines, he will claim that he is being held by immigration or by other government agencies,” it added.
It is reported that the syndicate’s strategy is to demand a significant sum from their victim in exchange for the foreigner’s freedom. Based on the report, the scammers would pose as BI officials or senior authorities.
The BI received a request from a female victim in March of last year, who claimed that officials at the Davao International Airport were holding her partner hostage. According to the woman, the bogus BI authorities requested a substantial sum of money in exchange for her partner’s release.
According to the syndicate, his colleague was stopped in their office because he was carrying a huge sum of money in his hand-carry bag. The official advised you to constantly double-check and verify with authorities to determine whether the story they are providing you is true.
“We are worried that many would continue to be victimized, especially during the valentine’s season. Be alert, and be wary of people you meet online,” said Tansingco.
READ ALSO: Filipina Loses Money after Scammed by Foreigner from Dating App
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