Love bombing scams are pretty sneaky, aren’t they? It starts with someone making you feel like the center of their world—endless compliments, constant attention, and affection that feels almost too good to be true. But that’s the thing. It is too good to be true. Scammers use this tactic to win your trust fast and then take advantage when your guard is down.
You know, once they’ve made you feel special, it’s easy to miss the red flags. Before you know it, they’re asking for money, personal details, or some other form of help. It often happens through social media or dating apps, where they pretend to be the perfect partner—except, they’re not who they say they are.
Did you know that according to the FTC's Protecting Older Consumers Report (2022-2023), older adults lost nearly $240 million to romance scams just last year? That’s a huge number, and love bombing plays a big part in making these scams so effective.
As digital platforms grow, scammers are finding new ways to manipulate emotions and exploit vulnerable users. VPNRanks predicts that by 2025, reported love bombing scams could rise to 124,000 cases. This alarming trend highlights the increasing threat, making it crucial for individuals to stay vigilant. It’s a wake-up call for everyone to protect themselves online.
In this report, I’ve gathered some eye-opening statistics on love bombing scams. The numbers don’t lie, and they’ll help you see just how serious this issue is—and hopefully, help you stay safe!
VPNRanks’ Key Findings: Shocking Love Bombing Scam Statistics
Here are VPNRanks’ key findings on love bombing scams for 2025, revealing alarming statistics that highlight the growing threat of this manipulative tactic, using past data for context:
- 📈 By 2025, reported love bombing scams could rise to 124,000 cases in the US alone.
- 💸 Financial losses from love bombing scams in the US are expected to reach approximately $2,107 million by 2025.
- 📊 In 2025, the 60+ age group may represent 33.6% of victims in love bombing scams.
- 📱Fake profiles on dating apps are expected to reach 40.99 million by 2025.
- 📊 By 2025, social media is expected to contribute around 46.31% to global love bombing scams.
Disclaimer: These figures are estimates provided by VPNRanks, based on historical data and current trends analyzed through predictive models. They represent potential future scenarios and should not be considered exact predictions. The actual outcomes may vary depending on various factors, including new interventions and changes in online behavior.
The Rise of Love Bombing Scams in the US: Alarming Statistics and Insights
Love bombing scams in the US are becoming increasingly prevalent, targeting vulnerable individuals through online platforms. With rising reports of financial and emotional exploitation, it’s crucial to understand how these scams are impacting victims across the country.
📈 VPNRanks predicts that by 2025, reported love bombing scams could rise to 124,000 cases. This surge is attributed to the increasing reliance on online platforms, which scammers exploit to target emotionally vulnerable individuals.
Data Findings
Data findings from Statistahighlight the alarming rise in romance scams in the United States. The numbers show a steady increase in reported cases over the years, signaling the growing severity of this issue.
- In 2022, there were around 73,000 reported cases of romance scams in the United States.
- This was approximately 17,000 higher than the previous year, when 56,000 cases were reported.
- Since 2017, the number of reported scams has increased every year.
Predictions by VPNRanks: The Future of Love Bombing Scams
Based on the increasing trend of reported romance scam cases, VPNRanks has made some predictions for the coming years. The rise in these scams continues to be a concern as more people are targeted online.
- By the end of 2024, the number of reported romance scams is expected to reach 107,000 cases.
- By the year 2025, this figure is projected to climb to 124,000 cases.
These predictions are based on the consistent increase observed between 2021 and 2022, indicating a troubling pattern that continues to grow.
The Growing Threat: Reasons Behind the Predicted Surge in Romance Scams
- The consistent yearly increase in romance scam cases shows a clear upward trend, with no signs of slowing down.
- The widespread use of online dating and social media platforms makes more people vulnerable to sophisticated scam tactics like love bombing.
- Scammers are constantly evolving their methods, taking advantage of new technology to target a growing pool of victims.
Counting the Cost: Financial Losses from Love Bombing Scams in the US
Love bombing scams are causing significant financial losses in the US, leaving victims emotionally and financially drained. With scammers using manipulation to extract money, the financial impact continues to grow year after year.
💸VPNRanks predicts that by 2025, financial losses from love bombing scams is expected to reach approximately $2,107 million. This increase is driven by the rising use of digital platforms, where scammers exploit individuals’ emotions to deceive them into sending money.
Data Findings
Data findings from the FTC reveals the massive financial losses caused by romance scams in the US. Since many frauds go unreported, these figures represent only a small fraction of the total public harm.
| Year of Survey | Financial Losses (USD) |
|---|---|
| 2019 | $493 million |
| 2020 | $730 million |
| 2021 | $1300 million |
| 2022 | $1300 million |
As seen in the table, the financial losses from romance scams have increased significantly over the years. This upward trend highlights the growing sophistication of scammers and the urgent need for better public awareness and protective measures.
Predictions by VPNRanks: Future Financial Losses from Romance Scams
Based on the historical data of financial losses due to romance scams, VPNRanks has projected significant growth in these figures for the coming years. With the rising sophistication of scammers, these losses are expected to continue increasing.
- By the end of 2024, financial losses from romance scams are predicted to reach around $1,838 million.
- By 2025, this number is expected to climb to $2,107 million.
These predictions are based on the average increase in losses from 2019 to 2022, which calculated an annual growth of approximately $269 million.
Why VPNRanks’ Predictions Hold Strong: Justifying the Rise in Financial Losses
- The increasing reliance on online platforms for personal connections provides more opportunities for scammers to target unsuspecting victims.
- Despite growing awareness, many people remain unaware of the sophisticated tactics scammers use, leading to higher financial losses.
- The steady increase in reported cases since 2019, combined with underreporting, suggests that the true financial impact is likely even greater than the available data shows.
Who’s at Risk? Age Groups Most Impacted by Love Bombing Scams
Victims of love bombing scams can come from all walks of life, as scammers adapt their tactics to manipulate emotions and trust. No specific age group is immune, making it important for everyone to stay vigilant and aware of the warning signs.
📊By 2025, VPNRanks predicts that the 60+ age group may represent 33.6% of victims in love bombing scams. This surge is due to scammers increasingly targeting older individuals more likely to be emotionally vulnerable and engaged on social media and dating platforms.
Data Findings
Data findings from the IC3 reporthighlight the varying impact of love bombing scams across different age groups. The percentages show how scammers are targeting individuals of all ages, with some groups experiencing significantly higher losses.
| Age Group | Percentage of Victims |
|---|---|
| Under 20 | 2% |
| 20-29 | 10% |
| 30-39 | 15% |
| 40-49 | 15% |
| 50-59 | 16% |
| 60+ | 32% |
Studying the table, it becomes clear that certain age groups are more frequently targeted in love bombing scams. As the percentages indicate, scammers tend to focus more on specific demographics. This data reinforces the need for awareness and education across all age groups to mitigate risks.
Predictions by VPNRanks: Future Age Groups Affected by Love Bombing Scams
Based on current trends and data analysis, VPNRanks has predicted which age groups are likely to experience the most significant impact from love bombing scams by 2025. These projections reflect the growing threat scammers pose to certain demographics.
- The 60+ age group is expected to face the highest percentage of victims, reaching 33.6% by 2025.
- Other age groups, such as 50-59, are also projected to see a slight increase, with victims rising to 16.64%.
- Younger age groups are predicted to remain lower, with smaller increases across those under 40.
These projections are calculated based on the yearly percentage increases observed in recent data, with the Over 60 group seeing the largest growth rate.
Explaining the Risk: Why Some Age Groups Are More Affected
- Older individuals are often more susceptible to emotional manipulation, making them prime targets for love bombing scams.
- The increased reliance on digital platforms by older age groups creates more opportunities for scammers to engage with vulnerable victims.
- Scammers are continuously evolving their techniques, specifically targeting demographics that may be less familiar with online fraud prevention methods.
Dating Apps and Love Bombing Scams: A Growing Concern
Dating apps have become a common platform for love bombing scams, where scammers exploit vulnerable users looking for connections. The anonymity and accessibility of these apps make it easier for scammers to build trust and manipulate emotions.
📱By 2025, fake profiles on dating apps are expected to reach 40.99 million. This rise, highlighted by VPNRanks, is driven by the growing popularity of online dating platforms, leading to more love bombing scams.
Data Findings
Data findings reveal the massive scale of dating app users, providing a fertile ground for love-bombing scammers. With the growth in online dating, the risks of encountering fraudulent profiles have increased significantly.
- In 2023, there were 381.48 million dating service users globally, projected to reach 452.47 million by 2028.
- 1 in 10 dating profiles is completely fake, with male profiles being 21% more likely to be fake than female ones.
- 19% of romance scams in the US began on a dating site or app in 2022.
The growing number of users and fake profiles create more opportunities for scammers to exploit unsuspecting victims.
References:
Predictions by VPNRanks: Future of Love Bombing Scams on Dating Apps
Based on current data and trends, VPNRanks has projected a significant increase in love bombing scams on dating apps by 2025. With the growing number of users and fake profiles, scammers will have more opportunities to exploit vulnerable individuals.
- By 2025, the number of fake profiles on dating apps is expected to rise to approximately 40.99 million.
- This increase in fake profiles will likely lead to a proportional rise in love bombing scams targeting users on these platforms.
These predictions are based on the growth in global dating service users and the consistent rate of fake profiles, with calculations estimating that 1 in 10 profiles will remain fraudulent.
Understanding VPNRanks’ Predictions: Why Scammers Will Thrive on Dating Apps
- The steady increase in dating app users means more people will be exposed to fake profiles, creating more opportunities for scammers.
- Despite awareness efforts, the prevalence of fake profiles remains high, with scammers constantly refining their tactics to appear legitimate.
- The anonymity and ease of creating fake accounts on dating apps allow scammers to operate at scale, increasing the likelihood of love bombing scams.
Social media platforms have become a major avenue for love bombing scams, allowing scammers to easily connect with and manipulate unsuspecting users. The accessibility and anonymity of these platforms make it easier for fraudsters to build false personas and exploit emotional vulnerabilities.
📊By 2025, social media is expected to contribute around 46.31% to global love bombing scams. VPNRanks attributes this rise to the growing use of platforms like Instagram, Facebook, WhatsApp, and Snapchat, which scammers increasingly exploit for fraudulent activities.
Data Findings
Data findings reveal that social media platforms have become a primary tool for romance scammers, surpassing dating apps in popularity. Scammers frequently use well-known social networks to manipulate their victims and expand their reach.
- 40% of romance scam victims in 2022 were targeted through social media, not dating apps.
- In the UK, over 33% of all romance scams began on Facebook during the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Scammers often move conversations to platforms like Google Hangouts, WhatsApp, and Telegram after initial contact on dating apps.
- Instagram is a common platform for scammers who steal photos and love-bomb victims with fake identities.
- 58% of American romance scams that escalated to sextortion were linked to Instagram and Snapchat.
The data shows that social media has become a hotspot for scammers, taking advantage of users across various platforms.
References:
Predictions by VPNRanks: The Future Role of Social Media in Love Bombing Scams
Based on current trends and the increasing use of social media platforms by scammers, VPNRanks has projected a significant rise in the contribution of social media to global love bombing scams by 2025. As scammers continue to exploit the anonymity and accessibility of these platforms, the risks are only set to grow.
- By 2025, social media is expected to contribute around 46.31% to global love bombing scams.
- The growing use of platforms like Instagram, Facebook, WhatsApp, and Snapchat for scam-related activities will fuel this rise.
- The shift from dating apps to social media networks will further increase users’ exposure to fraudulent profiles and scams.
These predictions are calculated based on a 5% annual growth rate in the contribution of social media to romance scams, using the 40% contribution from 2022 as a base.
Explaining VPNRanks’ Predictions: Why Social Media Is Becoming a Hotspot for Scammers
- Social media platforms offer scammers broader access to a larger, more diverse user base, making it easier to target and manipulate victims.
- The anonymity and ease of creating fake profiles on social media allow scammers to operate at scale, with minimal verification requirements.
- As more people rely on social media to form personal connections, scammers are shifting from dating apps to social networks, where users may be less cautious.
The Impact of Online Dating: How Digital Romance Leads to Scams and Emotional Challenges
Online dating has become a significant part of modern relationships, but it often comes with emotional stress, dishonesty, and the risk of falling victim to romance scams. As more people turn to dating apps, the manipulative tactics of scammers continue to rise, making it crucial to understand the risks associated with online love.
Below are key statistics that highlight the connection between online dating and romance scams.
Serious Relationships from Dating Apps by Generation (US)
- 52% of Gen Z adults have been in a serious relationship through dating apps.
- 49% of Millennials have found a serious relationship through dating apps.
- 47% of Gen X adults report being in a serious relationship via dating apps.
- Only 47% of Baby Boomers have experienced a serious relationship through dating apps.
Dating Apps Causing Stress or Anxiety by Gender (US)
- 8.7% of women report feeling stress or anxiety frequently due to online dating.
- 15.5% of men also experience frequent stress or anxiety while using dating apps.
Online Dating Scams by Gender (US)
- 53% of male users have fallen victim to online dating scams.
- 47% of female users have experienced scams while using dating services.
Romance Scam Encounters Worldwide by Country
- As of January 2023, 66% of survey respondents in India reported experiencing at least one online dating scam.
- 25% of respondents in France, the United States, and New Zealand stated they had encountered an online dating scam.
- Among all researched markets, Japan had the lowest number of online dating scam encounters.
Ghosting in Dating Apps (US)
- 60% of users in the US have been ghosted while using dating apps.
- 45% have ghosted another person.
Lying on Dating Profiles (US)
- 21% of users lie about their age on dating profiles.
- 14% misrepresent their income.
- 14% provide false information about their hobbies and interests.
- 12% lie about their height.
Source: Statista
The Tinder Swindler Case: A Global Romance Scam
Building Trust Through Love Bombing
Simon Leviev, posing as a wealthy diamond CEO, met Cecilie Fjellhøy on Tinder, sweeping her off her feet with extravagant trips and affection. This love bombing” made Cecilie trust him completely.
Manipulation and Financial Fraud
Leviev soon claimed he was in danger and needed money for security. Over 54 days, Cecilie took out loans, sending him over £200,000, believing she was helping her partner.
Emotional and Financial Devastation
The scam left Cecilie emotionally devastated and financially ruined, exposing the global reach of romance fraud.
Lessons Learned from the Tinder Swindler Case
- Beware of Love Bombing: Scammers often shower victims with attention and luxury early on to gain trust quickly. If something feels too good to be true, it likely is.
- Financial Requests Are a Red Flag: Legitimate partners will never ask for large sums of money, especially under emergency circumstances that seem unverifiable.
- Verify Information: Always verify the identity and background of someone you meet online, especially if they claim to have high-status professions.
Source: World Economic Forum
How Law Enforcement and Agencies Handle Love Bombing Scams
Laws addressing romance and love bombing scams vary by country but are generally enforced through agencies dealing with consumer protection, fraud, and cybercrime. In the United States, agencies like the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) play key roles in tackling romance fraud.
The FTC focuses on consumer protection and educates the public on identifying and reporting scams, while the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) allows victims to report online fraud. Both agencies work together to prosecute scammers and protect victims from further harm.
Additionally, global initiatives such as the Rapid Response Program under the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) help recover funds stolen via cyber-enabled financial crime schemes, including romance scams. This program collaborates with international financial intelligence units to freeze fraudulent transactions.
General Sentiment on Love Bombing Scams: Reddit Community Perspectives
Redditors express a mix of skepticism, humor, and frustration toward love bombing scams. Many find it baffling that people still fall for such schemes, despite them being well-known. Several users joke about the absurdity of the scam, with one mocking the prince from Nigeria” trope.
Others point out that these scams are sophisticated, with scammers creating fake investment sites and profiles to lure victims. There’s a shared sentiment that these scams are not new, yet they continue to trap unsuspecting individuals in significant financial losses.
Source: Reddit Thread
Love Bombing Scams: Key Takeaways from Cybersecurity Experts
In this section, I’ve compiled expert opinions on love bombing scams, shedding light on how scammers manipulate emotions to defraud victims. These insights emphasize the psychological tactics used by fraudsters and provide guidance on how to recognize and avoid falling prey to such schemes.
1. Monica Brown
Monica Brown emphasizes the growing sophistication of scammers on dating apps, warning users about tactics like love bombing. She highlights how fraudsters often create fake profiles with well-crafted stories to lure victims into a false sense of security.
Brown advises individuals to be cautious about sharing personal or financial information online and to thoroughly vet any potential matches, especially if they ask for money.
2. Sally-Ann Bird
Sally-Ann Birdhighlights the rising trend of romance and investment scams, particularly on dating platforms. Scammers often build emotional bonds over time before introducing fraudulent investment schemes, many involving cryptocurrency. Key red flags include unsolicited contact, rapid relationship development, and too-good-to-be-true investment opportunities.
She urges individuals to stay alert and watch for these warning signs, especially as scammers target vulnerable users around significant dates like Valentine’s Day. Protect yourself and share the knowledge to safeguard others from online predators.
3. Tiburcio Sanz
Tiburcio Sanz warns of a sharp rise in romance scams within the crypto space, with an 85-fold increase since 2020. These scams, which often involve luring victims with promises of crypto profits before stealing their funds, are among the most lucrative for scammers in 2024.
Notably, August alone saw losses of $293 million from phishing and romance scams. Sanz emphasizes the urgent need for heightened vigilance and stronger security measures to combat these growing threats.
Predictive Methodology: How VPNRanks Forecasts Scam Trends
VPNRanks employs a detailed approach to predict love bombing scams, leveraging various data sources and expert insights.
- Historical Data Analysis: VPNRanks collects and studies past scam reports to identify recurring patterns and growth. By analyzing the evolution of scams, they can project future trends and risks based on historical growth.
- Market Trends Monitoring: VPNRanks analyzes the rising usage of online platforms like dating apps and social media to estimate their contribution to scam activities and predict how scammers might exploit these spaces.
- Expert Consultation: Industry professionals provide insights into emerging scam tactics and evolving technology, helping refine VPNRanks’ predictions with real-world expert knowledge.
- User Behavior Analysis: By studying victim engagement patterns and demographic behaviors, VPNRanks identifies which groups are most vulnerable to scams and how they are targeted online.
- Cross-industry Data Comparison: VPNRanks compares scam data from various regions and industries to create a holistic global perspective on how scams spread across different platforms, identifying key risk areas.
Explore More In-Depth Statistics and Reports by VPNRanks
- Online Dating Scams and Threats
- Online Scams Statistics
- AI Voice Scams
- Travel Scams
Conclusion
The rise of love bombing scams is a serious concern, with scammers using emotional manipulation to target vulnerable individuals. The growing reliance on online platforms, especially dating apps and social media, has only increased the opportunities for these scams to thrive. By 2025, reported love bombing scams could rise to 124,000 cases, further demonstrating the scale of the issue.
Social media platforms are playing an increasingly significant role in these scams, with predictions indicating that by 2025, they will contribute around 46.31% to global love bombing scams. As scammers continue to exploit platforms like Instagram and Facebook, the threat is only becoming more widespread.
To combat this, it’s crucial for users to stay informed and cautious when engaging online. Recognizing the signs of love bombing and protecting personal information can help prevent becoming a victim. The rising statistics serve as a clear warning to remain vigilant in an ever-evolving digital landscape.
