đš SCAM ALERT: Fake Investment via Known Acquaintance đš
A victim was introduced to a scammer through a mutual friend. The scammer pitched a âgreat opportunityâ to co-invest in a new company đŒ, so the victim sent a large amount of funds. Later, the scammer asked to borrow even more, promising full repayment in just 2 months. Once the funds were sent, the scammer vanished, no contact, no repayment.
Tactics Used by the Scammer:
đč Building false trust: They leveraged a friend recommendation to appear credible, making it feel like a safe, personal connection đ„đŹ.
đč High-pressure investment pitches: Promising quick profits from a "joint venture" to create urgency and excitement âĄđ.
đč Emotional manipulation: Asking for loans under the guise of temporary need, with short-term repayment promises to lower defenses đąđ€.
đč Ghosting after payment: Disappearing once the money was secured, often by blocking contacts or changing numbers đȘâđ”.
â ïž Remember: Don't naively trust someone just because you've met them in person or even through a friend. Scammers are pros at faking relationships â even "known" people can be deceiving if their intentions are hidden đ”ïžââïžâ