Australian Woman Loses Over ₹4 Crore to Online Romance Scams

A 57-year-old Australian woman, Annette Ford, fell victim to not just one, but two online romance scams, resulting in a cumulative loss of over ₹4 crore. These scams have left her financially devastated and forced her to move to a rural area.

How It Happened

Annette, recovering from a 33-year-long marriage breakup, turned to online dating platforms in hopes of finding a genuine partner. She met a man named William, who gained her trust through extended conversations. Once trust was established, he claimed his wallet had been stolen and requested help covering urgent expenses. Annette sent him AUD 5,000 (approximately ₹2.75 lakh) without hesitation.

This initial transaction led to a series of requests. William claimed he needed money for hospital bills, accommodation, and other pressing matters. By the time Annette realized something was wrong, she had already sent him over AUD 300,000 (about ₹1.65 crore).

A Second Scam Unfolds

In 2022, Annette encountered another scammer named Nelson through Facebook. This second individual also used emotional manipulation, convincing her to send AUD 280,000 (approximately ₹1.54 crore).

A Growing Issue in Australia

Annette’s case is part of a larger trend. In 2023, Australia reported over 3,200 romance scams with a total financial impact of around ₹130 crore. Consumer protection agencies have warned that emerging technologies, like AI-driven deepfakes, make these scams even more convincing.

Staying Vigilant

Annette’s experience serves as a cautionary tale for online daters. Authorities recommend verifying identities, being skeptical of sudden financial requests, and reporting suspicious activity promptly to prevent falling victim to romance scams.