Lawmakers are urging dating app companies, including Match Group, to take stronger action against romance scams after victims like one woman who lost nearly $100,000 through a Plenty of Fish scheme. The scam began with persistent communication and emotional manipulation before escalating into demands for financial support, leaving victims financially devastated. Concerns are growing over the platforms’ role in preventing such fraudulent activity, with calls for better safeguards to protect users. The case highlights the rising threat of sophisticated online deception targeting vulnerable individuals seeking relationships.
Congress calls for Match Group and others to do more to help victims like Mary, who lost $100,000 to app scammerMary met a man on the dating app Plenty of Fish in 2024. She told the Guardian she had been looking for a connection, but instead became the victim of a romance scam that cost her almost $100,000.“There was a lot of conversation, and then it started with the constant contact, pressure and repeated asks for money,” Mary, who asked that her last name be withheld, said in an interview on Tuesday. “It just escalated really, really quickly.” Continue reading...
