A 36-year-old man and a 42-year-old woman from Mississauga have been taken into custody following an investigation into a romance scam, leading Toronto police to alert the public about being cautious with online relationships and reconsidering any money they might send.
The suspects allegedly posed as a “successful businessman” based in the Greater Toronto Area, convincing victims to lend them large amounts of money for their supposed business needs.
Once the funds were transferred, they severed all communication with the victims, using the money for personal expenses instead, police reported.
Authorities believe that this couple scammed victims out of approximately $250,000 and suspect there could be more people affected, as stated by Toronto police on social media.
The man faces two charges including fraud over $5,000, while the woman is charged with possession of property obtained through crime exceeding $5,000. Both are scheduled to appear in court on March 9.
WATCH | Red flags you should watch for in a potential romance scam:
Ontario police say romance scams are on the rise. Here’s how to spot them
Canadians reported losses amounting to $58 million from romance scams to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre in 2024. CBC’s Ali Chiasson highlights some red flags regarding romance scams that Ontario police want everyone to notice.
The arrests serve as an important reminder that romance scams tend to increase leading up to Valentine’s Day, according to law enforcement officials.
“Romance scams are not about poor judgment. They are highly organized, deliberate frauds that rely on social engineering and play on emotion,” they said.
Toronto police advised residents to be aware of these signs when considering a potential scam relationship:
A relationship that progresses rapidly but avoids meeting face-to-face. Claims of wealth or business success alongside financial troubles. Requests for cash related to shipping fees, investments, customs issues or urgent expenses. Asking for money via bank draft, wire transfer, cryptocurrency or directed towards a business account. Emotional manipulation using guilt or fear of losing the connection.
If anyone has information or similar experiences they’re encouraged to reach out either directly to police or Crime Stoppers.
WATCH | A look at who’s conning Canadians:
Bad Romance: Who’s Conning Canadians?
This investigation looks into ongoing schemes mixing investment frauds with romantic cons and crypto deception. We meet individuals who’ve lost their life savings while uncovering many scammers are coerced into these activities.
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Ontario police say romance scams are on the rise. Here’s how to spot them
Canadians reported losses amounting to $58 million from romance scams to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre in 2024. CBC’s Ali Chiasson highlights some red flags regarding romance scams that Ontario police want everyone to notice.
The arrests serve as an important reminder that romance scams tend to increase leading up to Valentine’s Day, according to law enforcement officials.
“Romance scams are not about poor judgment. They are highly organized, deliberate frauds that rely on social engineering and play on emotion,” they said.
Toronto police advised residents to be aware of these signs when considering a potential scam relationship:
A relationship that progresses rapidly but avoids meeting face-to-face. Claims of wealth or business success alongside financial troubles. Requests for cash related to shipping fees, investments, customs issues or urgent expenses. Asking for money via bank draft, wire transfer, cryptocurrency or directed towards a business account. Emotional manipulation using guilt or fear of losing the connection.
If anyone has information or similar experiences they’re encouraged to reach out either directly to police or Crime Stoppers.
WATCH | A look at who’s conning Canadians:
Bad Romance: Who’s Conning Canadians?
This investigation looks into ongoing schemes mixing investment frauds with romantic cons and crypto deception. We meet individuals who’ve lost their life savings while uncovering many scammers are coerced into these activities.
Canadians scammed out of millions in 2025
Canadians experienced nearly $63 million in losses due to relationship scams just last year alone, according to Jeff Horncastle from the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre. This number could be significantly larger since it’s estimated only five to ten percent of victims actually report their incidents due largely because of feelings of shame surrounding fraud. “People are just ashamed to discuss what happened,” he mentioned. “In some cases they don’t want to report unless it’s guaranteed that they get their money back.” Horncastle urges anyone who thinks they’ve fallen victim should contact local law enforcement along with reaching out to anti-fraud services. “As we know much of this fraud originates overseas; we can share information [with law enforcement],” he stated. Taking action by discussing these issues openly and reporting such crimes helps prevent future victimization according to Heather Rovet, someone who once fell prey herself. “It’s like pouring gasoline on fire,” she explained. “You’re just feeding them by staying quiet.” She advises users on dating apps remain cautious since anyone requesting money raises a “huge red flag.” “It can be really hard because your heart is opening up and you’re falling in love,” Rovet noted. “So you think you’re being genuine while actually being used.” She encourages continued discussions around these matters so awareness can grow while diminishing stigma against those affected by fraud.Source link
