Five things to look out for when spotting ‘friendship scams’

• Be cautious of unexpected messages on social media from unknown individuals, as many scams originate there.
• A red flag is reluctance to meet in person or engage in video calls, especially given the prevalence of AI-generated content used by scammers.
• Scammers often build trust and rapport gradually, sometimes over years, before eventually requesting money.
• Any requests for bank transfers or gift cards, even for small amounts, should be considered a clear warning sign.
• Fraudsters frequently create urgent scenarios, such as medical emergencies, to pressure victims into sending money quickly.

IN FULL

5 red flags of friendship scams to look out for