Pennsylvania Woman Loses $384K in Alleged Romance Scam, State Police Investigate
A 63-year-old woman from Lebanon, Pennsylvania, has reportedly lost approximately $384,000 and hundreds of Apple gift cards in an alleged romance and catfishing scam. The Jonestown Criminal Investigation Unit of the Pennsylvania State Police initiated an investigation into the reported fraud on September 6. Troopers are currently reviewing financial records and transactions to determine the exact amount of the victim's losses and to identify individuals and accounts associated with the scheme. State police are issuing warnings to the public, advising against sending money, gift cards, cryptocurrency, or financial information to individuals known only through online interactions. They also caution against providing gift card security codes, making wire transfers, or withdrawing money at the direction of an online romantic partner. The police further recommend being suspicious of anyone claiming to be a celebrity, musician, military member, or other professional who cannot meet in person or repeatedly reques...