Loneliness is a factor in why smart people sometimes fall for online romance scams. Many people like interacting with others online. It makes them feel safe and in control when compared to some real-life connections. Scammers play into this by claiming to share similar likes and interests with their victims.

Who falls for romance scams?

People aged 45-54 were most likely to be scammed with 37% reporting that theyve been targeted. People aged 35-44 came in close second with 35% reporting theyve been targeted by a romance scam. While 27% of those aged 18-24 and 24% of people aged 25-34 report being targeted by a scam.