Investment scams disguised as romance, BBB warns

Valentine’s Day is approaching fast, and while many people are celebrating love, criminals are taking advantage of the season to target victims. Scammers often attempt to quickly build romantic relationships to gain trust — all while faking affection and planning to defraud their targets.

The Better Business Bureau (BBB) of Alberta and East Kootenay is warning that criminals posing as prospective romantic partners are increasingly carrying out investment scams. Wes Lafortune Media Relations with BBB says these fraudsters move fast, establishing emotional connections to manipulate victims into sending money. 

If you believe you’ve been a victim of a scam report to your local police service using the non-emergency line, you can also contact the Better Business Bureau and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre. 

 

 

Heidi Echavarria

Heidi was born in Bogota, Colombia and lived there until she was 18, then she moved to Caracas, Venezuela where she finished her bachelor's degree in journalism. Since 2010 she covered political issues related to the government of former president Hugo Chávez and his political opponents, management, death and transition to a new government. Likewise, Heidi did research, wrote chronicles, reports and news in the social, community, and cultural areas. In 2019, Heidi, along with her husband and three children, moved to Aurora, Ontario where she worked at Teen Challenge Canada. In September 2023, she moved to Lethbridge, Alberta. Heidi also has a diploma in Addictions and Community Health. In 2024, she joined at Bridge City News team as a Video Journalist to produce a wide range of stories including those which are faith based glorifying Jesus Christ.

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