Protecting Vermont Seniors from Romance Scams
In 2024, Vermont seniors lost $604,795 to romance scams. These emotionally devastating scams exploit the desire for companionship and can drain life savings. This guide will help you recognize the warning signs and protect yourself.
Vermont’s Loneliness Factor
Vermont’s rural character and harsh winters create conditions that romance scammers exploit:
- Geographic isolation: Many Vermont seniors live miles from neighbors, making online connection appealing
- Long winters: November through April isolation increases online activity and vulnerability
- Widow/widower population: Vermont has many seniors who lost spouses and seek companionship
- Limited dating pool: Small population makes online dating seem like the only option
Vermont-Specific Romance Scam Patterns
The “Ski Country” Scam: Scammers claim to own vacation property in Stowe or Killington to establish Vermont connection, then request money for “property emergencies.”
The “Maple Season” Visit: Victim is promised an in-person visit during sugaring season, but “emergencies” require money first. The visit never happens.
Vermont Support Resources for Romance Scam Victims
- Vermont 211: Dial 211 for confidential support and counseling referrals
- Vermont Center for Crime Victim Services: (800) 750-1213
- Local senior centers: Many offer support groups – you are not alone
How Romance Scams Work
Romance scammers follow a predictable pattern:
- Create a fake profile on dating sites, Facebook, or other social media
- Use attractive photos often stolen from models or military personnel
- Build an emotional connection over weeks or months
- Claim to be overseas – military deployment, oil rig, international business
- Eventually request money for emergencies, travel, or medical bills
- Continue requests with escalating amounts until the victim has nothing left
The Romance Scam Timeline
Understanding the progression helps you recognize the scam:
Week 1-2: First Contact
The scammer reaches out with flattering messages. They express strong interest and ask many personal questions while sharing a compelling (fake) life story.
Week 2-4: Love Bombing
Intense communication begins – constant texts, calls, and messages. The scammer quickly professes deep feelings and talks about a future together.
Week 4-8: Building Trust
The relationship feels real. Plans to meet are made but always fall through due to “circumstances.” The scammer becomes a daily presence in your life.
Week 8+: The Ask
A crisis emerges – medical emergency, legal trouble, business problem, or travel costs. The scammer needs money urgently and you are the only one who can help.
Ongoing: Escalation
Once you send money, more crises arise. Each request is larger. The scammer isolates you from friends and family who might intervene.
Warning Signs of a Romance Scam
- Profile photo looks like a model – too perfect or professional
- Cannot video chat – camera is always “broken” or unavailable
- Claims to be overseas – military, oil rig, international business
- Falls in love very quickly – professes deep feelings within days
- Stories do not add up – inconsistencies in their background
- Asks for money – for any reason, no matter how sympathetic
- Requests unusual payment methods – wire transfer, gift cards, cryptocurrency
- Avoids meeting in person – always has an excuse
- Discourages contact with family/friends – wants to keep relationship secret
How to Protect Yourself
- Reverse image search profile photos – use Google Images or TinEye
- Never send money to someone you have not met in person
- Insist on video chat before trusting the relationship
- Tell a friend or family member about the relationship
- Trust your instincts – if something feels wrong, it probably is
- Research their claims – verify their job, location, and background
- Take it slow – real relationships develop over time
Emotional Recovery Support
Romance scam victims often feel shame and embarrassment. Remember:
- It is not your fault – scammers are skilled manipulators
- You are not alone – thousands of people fall victim each year
- The feelings were real – even though the person was not
- Healing takes time – be patient with yourself
Vermont Support Resources:
- Vermont 211: Dial 2-1-1 for local support services
- AARP Fraud Victim Support: (877) 908-3360
- National Elder Fraud Hotline: (833) 372-8311
If You Have Sent Money
- Stop all contact with the scammer – do not respond to messages
- Do not send more money – no matter what they say
- Do not be embarrassed – reporting helps protect others
- Contact your bank immediately to stop any pending transfers
- Report to FTC: reportfraud.ftc.gov
- Report to FBI IC3: ic3.gov
- Vermont Attorney General: (800) 649-2424
- Report to the dating site/platform where you met them
Free Training Available
Take our free online course to learn more about protecting yourself from romance scams:
→ Start Romance Scam Recognition Training (Module 5)