Online scams are present in most of the countries of the world.  If you have access to the internet, you could be at risk.  According to the social circumstances and culture, there are certain patterns that distinguish the behavior of scammers from one country to another, like a trademark.

The Philippines has historically suffered from several kinds of natural disasters, but the effects of these have been especially deadly in 2013, with the Bohol earthquake and the Super Typhoon Hayan.

Philippines private investigators say one of the consequences that natural disasters have left in the country is the rise in online scams: charity scams, romance scams, and more. Natural disasters are powerful tools for scammers because they attract sympathy and people looking to help.   Internet criminals use these tragedies very effectively to move heartstrings, and then steal your money.

International investigators caution many scammers in the Philippines claim to be having a rough time finding a job and paying bills. Others claim to have a missing child or a hospitalized mother due to the disaster, and they need money to locate them or solve their health situation. Stories vary, but the bottom line is that they will always request financial help. There are certainly sad stories of real people, who are still struggling to start a new life again. However, unsolicited contacts are often fraud or phishing attempts.

Recently, Facebook´s dating app “Are You Interested” revealed that most men from around the world prefer Asian women. Filipina are internationally known to be good wives and girlfriends, and they happen to speak English, which is perfect for those men in Canada, the U.S, U.K. and Australia.  In the Philippines many of the girls are legitimate and honest, but avoiding the fraud is no easy task.

Background checks are always the recommended first step to avoid being a victim.  In cases where the foreigner has met the Filipina or where more detailed evidence is needed, investigators will conduct  Philippines surveillance, for activities, living situation, relationship status and more.

Here are some of the warning signs that you might be a victim:

1. Money requests for health issues, financial trouble, visa application, etc.
2. Claims of falling in love or building a strong relationship in a very short period.
3. Serious talk about leaving the country as soon as possible or marriage.
4. Use of photos that look professional or model-like.
5. Strange or inconsistent behavior, or feeling something is wrong.

If you know someone who is involved with a person in the Philippines, urge them to be safe and know the warning signs.  Never send money via Western Union to anyone you’ve never met or had verified by a professional.  Don’t be a victim of scam.  Share this with the people you care about!

C. Wright
© 2014 Philippine PI

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