Romance scam is a method where a person who meets on social media or dating apps establishes a long-term emotional bond and extracts money from the victim. The majority of victims do not apply due to shame; However, there is a legal way.
Typical Profile
- Soldier/doctor/engineer working abroad
- Investment specialist (crypto/forex)
- Attractive but "restricted for acquaintances"
- Family problem / urgent health problem
Money Request Scenarios
- "Ticket money to come to Türkiye "
- "There is a problem at customs, you need to pay 5,000 dollars"
- "Investment opportunity, we can earn together" (crypto/forex)
- "My mother needs urgent surgery"
Related Crimes
- TCK art.158/1-f fraud with information system (3-10 years)
- TCK art.157 fraud
- TCK Article 282 money laundering (if systematic)
What the Victim Should Do
- Take screenshots of all correspondence
- Keep bank/IBAN information
- File a criminal complaint to the police station/prosecutor's office
- Request a transfer refund through your bank
- Report the social media account get
- Get professional support (the embarrassment period can be long)
Supreme Court 23. CD
23. CD adopts that if it can be determined that "more than one victim is the target of the same fraudster" in romance scam files, TCK Article 220 organization crime can also be applied.
Prevention
- Do not have a long-term relationship with people who do not meet (video)
- Do not send money to ANYONE who requests money
- Be suspicious of "investment opportunity" claims. get closer
- Search the profile picture with Google Lens (may be stolen)
Cyber crimes lawyer recommended.