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AARP Texas Facebook Live on Romance Scams and the Hidden Dangers of Online Love

Posted on 08/20/24 by Mark Hollis

In this age of digital connectivity, many people are forming friendships and potential love interests through social media, mobile game apps, and online dating sites.

While these platforms can be wonderful ways to meet new people, it's crucial to remember that not everyone online has good intentions. Cyberspace is full of scammers eager to take advantage of lonely hearts, and their ranks are growing.

Romance scams can overlap with or evolve into other forms of fraud. For example, international criminal gangs use dating sites to recruit unwitting “money mules” to launder ill-gotten funds through their bank accounts or other means. And con artists are increasingly luring supposed sweethearts into fraudulent cryptocurrency investments.

AARP Texas invites you to the AARP Texas Facebook page for a live conversation at 11 a.m. CT Wednesday, Sept. 4, to learn about the toll of being a romance scam victim, how to protect yourself, and where to find support if you have been target.

During the Facebook Live event, we'll bring experts into the conversation to help you better understand the warning signs of a scam, ways to protect yourself and others, and what to do if you think you've fallen victim to a scam.

Experts on the call will include:

• Leigha Simonton, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Texas.
• Adam Schneider, Special Agent in Charge of the Social Security Administration – Office of Inspector General Dallas Field Division.
• Donna Strittmatter Max, Assistant United States Attorney in the Northern District of Texas.

Details of the event are:

AARP Texas Facebook Live on

Texas Romance Scams

11 a.m. to Noon CT

Wednesday, Sept. 4, 2024

Visit the AARP Texas channel on Facebook

Or enter this address in your internet browser: https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas/

This story is provided by AARP Texas. Visit the AARP Texas page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.

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			<header><h1 class="article-headline">AARP Texas Facebook Live on Romance Scams and the  Hidden Dangers of Online Love</h1></header>	
						<div class="posted-on">
				Posted on 08/20/24 
				by <b>Mark Hollis</b>			</div>
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        </div><p>In this age of digital connectivity, many people are forming friendships and potential love interests through social media, mobile game apps, and online dating sites. <br><br>While these platforms can be wonderful ways to meet new people, it's crucial to remember that not everyone online has good intentions. Cyberspace is full of scammers eager to take advantage of lonely hearts, and their ranks are growing.<br><br>Romance scams can overlap with or evolve into other forms of fraud. For example, <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/info-2022/international-phone-scammers-target-consumers.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">international criminal gangs</a></span></span> use dating sites to recruit unwitting <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/info-2021/money-mule-romance-scam.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">“money mules”</a></span></span> to launder ill-gotten funds through their bank accounts or other means. And con artists are increasingly luring supposed sweethearts into <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/info-2021/cryptocurrency-romance-scams.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">fraudulent cryptocurrency investments</a></span></span>.<br><br>AARP Texas invites you to the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><b><u>AARP Texas Facebook page</u></b></a></span></span> for a live conversation at <b>11 a.m. CT Wednesday, Sept. 4, </b>to learn about the toll of being a romance scam victim, how to protect yourself, and where to find support if you have been target.<br><br>During the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Facebook Live event</a></span></span>, we'll bring experts into the conversation to help you better understand the warning signs of a scam, ways to protect yourself and others, and what to do if you think you've fallen victim to a scam. <br><br>Experts on the call will include:<br></p><ul><li>Leigha Simonton, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Texas.</li><li>Adam Schneider, Special Agent in Charge of the Social Security Administration – Office of Inspector General Dallas Field Division.</li><li>Donna Strittmatter Max, Assistant United States Attorney in the Northern District of Texas.</li></ul><p>Details of the event are:<br><br></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b>AARP Texas Facebook Live on</b></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b>Texas Romance Scams </b></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b>11 a.m. to Noon CT</b></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b>Wednesday, Sept. 4, 2024</b></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b>Visit the </b><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><b>AARP Texas channel on Facebook</b></a></span></span></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center">Or enter this address in your internet browser: <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FAARPTexas%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7Cmhollis%40aarp.org%7C6898a40962cb4a82b87a08dcc855bd1b%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638605517766925639%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=A7NPcEPn7On9JEen%2BY1pNTDc%2FmVyWocKRi78HZTkI6c%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas/</a></span></span></p><p></p></div>
    
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		<p><i>This story is provided by AARP Texas. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/texas/" target="_blank">AARP Texas</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p>
	
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			<header><h1 class="article-headline">AARP Texas Facebook Live on Romance Scams and the  Hidden Dangers of Online Love</h1></header>	
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				Posted on 08/20/24 
				by <b>Mark Hollis</b>			</div>
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        </div><p>In this age of digital connectivity, many people are forming friendships and potential love interests through social media, mobile game apps, and online dating sites. <br><br>While these platforms can be wonderful ways to meet new people, it's crucial to remember that not everyone online has good intentions. Cyberspace is full of scammers eager to take advantage of lonely hearts, and their ranks are growing.<br><br>Romance scams can overlap with or evolve into other forms of fraud. For example, <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/info-2022/international-phone-scammers-target-consumers.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">international criminal gangs</a></span></span> use dating sites to recruit unwitting <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/info-2021/money-mule-romance-scam.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">“money mules”</a></span></span> to launder ill-gotten funds through their bank accounts or other means. And con artists are increasingly luring supposed sweethearts into <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/info-2021/cryptocurrency-romance-scams.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">fraudulent cryptocurrency investments</a></span></span>.<br><br>AARP Texas invites you to the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><b><u>AARP Texas Facebook page</u></b></a></span></span> for a live conversation at <b>11 a.m. CT Wednesday, Sept. 4, </b>to learn about the toll of being a romance scam victim, how to protect yourself, and where to find support if you have been target.<br><br>During the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Facebook Live event</a></span></span>, we'll bring experts into the conversation to help you better understand the warning signs of a scam, ways to protect yourself and others, and what to do if you think you've fallen victim to a scam. <br><br>Experts on the call will include:<br></p><ul><li>Leigha Simonton, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Texas.</li><li>Adam Schneider, Special Agent in Charge of the Social Security Administration – Office of Inspector General Dallas Field Division.</li><li>Donna Strittmatter Max, Assistant United States Attorney in the Northern District of Texas.</li></ul><p>Details of the event are:<br><br></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b>AARP Texas Facebook Live on</b></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b>Texas Romance Scams </b></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b>11 a.m. to Noon CT</b></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b>Wednesday, Sept. 4, 2024</b></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b>Visit the </b><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><b>AARP Texas channel on Facebook</b></a></span></span></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center">Or enter this address in your internet browser: <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FAARPTexas%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7Cmhollis%40aarp.org%7C6898a40962cb4a82b87a08dcc855bd1b%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638605517766925639%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=A7NPcEPn7On9JEen%2BY1pNTDc%2FmVyWocKRi78HZTkI6c%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas/</a></span></span></p><p></p></div>
    
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		<p><i>This story is provided by AARP Texas. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/texas/" target="_blank">AARP Texas</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p>
	
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			<header><h1 class="article-headline">AARP Texas Facebook Live on Romance Scams and the  Hidden Dangers of Online Love</h1></header>	
						<div class="posted-on">
				Posted on 08/20/24 
				by <b>Mark Hollis</b>			</div>
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        </div><p>In this age of digital connectivity, many people are forming friendships and potential love interests through social media, mobile game apps, and online dating sites. <br><br>While these platforms can be wonderful ways to meet new people, it's crucial to remember that not everyone online has good intentions. Cyberspace is full of scammers eager to take advantage of lonely hearts, and their ranks are growing.<br><br>Romance scams can overlap with or evolve into other forms of fraud. For example, <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/info-2022/international-phone-scammers-target-consumers.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">international criminal gangs</a></span></span> use dating sites to recruit unwitting <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/info-2021/money-mule-romance-scam.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">“money mules”</a></span></span> to launder ill-gotten funds through their bank accounts or other means. And con artists are increasingly luring supposed sweethearts into <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/info-2021/cryptocurrency-romance-scams.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">fraudulent cryptocurrency investments</a></span></span>.<br><br>AARP Texas invites you to the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><b><u>AARP Texas Facebook page</u></b></a></span></span> for a live conversation at <b>11 a.m. CT Wednesday, Sept. 4, </b>to learn about the toll of being a romance scam victim, how to protect yourself, and where to find support if you have been target.<br><br>During the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Facebook Live event</a></span></span>, we'll bring experts into the conversation to help you better understand the warning signs of a scam, ways to protect yourself and others, and what to do if you think you've fallen victim to a scam. <br><br>Experts on the call will include:<br></p><ul><li>Leigha Simonton, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Texas.</li><li>Adam Schneider, Special Agent in Charge of the Social Security Administration – Office of Inspector General Dallas Field Division.</li><li>Donna Strittmatter Max, Assistant United States Attorney in the Northern District of Texas.</li></ul><p>Details of the event are:<br><br></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b>AARP Texas Facebook Live on</b></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b>Texas Romance Scams </b></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b>11 a.m. to Noon CT</b></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b>Wednesday, Sept. 4, 2024</b></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b>Visit the </b><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><b>AARP Texas channel on Facebook</b></a></span></span></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center">Or enter this address in your internet browser: <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FAARPTexas%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7Cmhollis%40aarp.org%7C6898a40962cb4a82b87a08dcc855bd1b%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638605517766925639%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=A7NPcEPn7On9JEen%2BY1pNTDc%2FmVyWocKRi78HZTkI6c%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas/</a></span></span></p><p></p></div>
    
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		<p><i>This story is provided by AARP Texas. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/texas/" target="_blank">AARP Texas</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p>
	
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		<div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-AUSTIN-TX">Renew</a> or 
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			<header><h1 class="article-headline">AARP Texas Facebook Live on Romance Scams and the  Hidden Dangers of Online Love</h1></header>	
						<div class="posted-on">
				Posted on 08/20/24 
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        </div><p>In this age of digital connectivity, many people are forming friendships and potential love interests through social media, mobile game apps, and online dating sites. <br><br>While these platforms can be wonderful ways to meet new people, it's crucial to remember that not everyone online has good intentions. Cyberspace is full of scammers eager to take advantage of lonely hearts, and their ranks are growing.<br><br>Romance scams can overlap with or evolve into other forms of fraud. For example, <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/info-2022/international-phone-scammers-target-consumers.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">international criminal gangs</a></span></span> use dating sites to recruit unwitting <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/info-2021/money-mule-romance-scam.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">“money mules”</a></span></span> to launder ill-gotten funds through their bank accounts or other means. And con artists are increasingly luring supposed sweethearts into <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/info-2021/cryptocurrency-romance-scams.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">fraudulent cryptocurrency investments</a></span></span>.<br><br>AARP Texas invites you to the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><b><u>AARP Texas Facebook page</u></b></a></span></span> for a live conversation at <b>11 a.m. CT Wednesday, Sept. 4, </b>to learn about the toll of being a romance scam victim, how to protect yourself, and where to find support if you have been target.<br><br>During the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Facebook Live event</a></span></span>, we'll bring experts into the conversation to help you better understand the warning signs of a scam, ways to protect yourself and others, and what to do if you think you've fallen victim to a scam. <br><br>Experts on the call will include:<br></p><ul><li>Leigha Simonton, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Texas.</li><li>Adam Schneider, Special Agent in Charge of the Social Security Administration – Office of Inspector General Dallas Field Division.</li><li>Donna Strittmatter Max, Assistant United States Attorney in the Northern District of Texas.</li></ul><p>Details of the event are:<br><br></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b>AARP Texas Facebook Live on</b></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b>Texas Romance Scams </b></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b>11 a.m. to Noon CT</b></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b>Wednesday, Sept. 4, 2024</b></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b>Visit the </b><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><b>AARP Texas channel on Facebook</b></a></span></span></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center">Or enter this address in your internet browser: <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FAARPTexas%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7Cmhollis%40aarp.org%7C6898a40962cb4a82b87a08dcc855bd1b%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638605517766925639%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=A7NPcEPn7On9JEen%2BY1pNTDc%2FmVyWocKRi78HZTkI6c%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas/</a></span></span></p><p></p></div>
    
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		<p><i>This story is provided by AARP Texas. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/texas/" target="_blank">AARP Texas</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p>
	
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			<header><h1 class="article-headline">AARP Texas Facebook Live on Romance Scams and the  Hidden Dangers of Online Love</h1></header>	
						<div class="posted-on">
				Posted on 08/20/24 
				by <b>Mark Hollis</b>			</div>
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        </div><p>In this age of digital connectivity, many people are forming friendships and potential love interests through social media, mobile game apps, and online dating sites. <br><br>While these platforms can be wonderful ways to meet new people, it's crucial to remember that not everyone online has good intentions. Cyberspace is full of scammers eager to take advantage of lonely hearts, and their ranks are growing.<br><br>Romance scams can overlap with or evolve into other forms of fraud. For example, <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/info-2022/international-phone-scammers-target-consumers.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">international criminal gangs</a></span></span> use dating sites to recruit unwitting <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/info-2021/money-mule-romance-scam.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">“money mules”</a></span></span> to launder ill-gotten funds through their bank accounts or other means. And con artists are increasingly luring supposed sweethearts into <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/info-2021/cryptocurrency-romance-scams.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">fraudulent cryptocurrency investments</a></span></span>.<br><br>AARP Texas invites you to the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><b><u>AARP Texas Facebook page</u></b></a></span></span> for a live conversation at <b>11 a.m. CT Wednesday, Sept. 4, </b>to learn about the toll of being a romance scam victim, how to protect yourself, and where to find support if you have been target.<br><br>During the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Facebook Live event</a></span></span>, we'll bring experts into the conversation to help you better understand the warning signs of a scam, ways to protect yourself and others, and what to do if you think you've fallen victim to a scam. <br><br>Experts on the call will include:<br></p><ul><li>Leigha Simonton, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Texas.</li><li>Adam Schneider, Special Agent in Charge of the Social Security Administration – Office of Inspector General Dallas Field Division.</li><li>Donna Strittmatter Max, Assistant United States Attorney in the Northern District of Texas.</li></ul><p>Details of the event are:<br><br></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b>AARP Texas Facebook Live on</b></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b>Texas Romance Scams </b></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b>11 a.m. to Noon CT</b></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b>Wednesday, Sept. 4, 2024</b></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b>Visit the </b><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><b>AARP Texas channel on Facebook</b></a></span></span></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center">Or enter this address in your internet browser: <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FAARPTexas%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7Cmhollis%40aarp.org%7C6898a40962cb4a82b87a08dcc855bd1b%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638605517766925639%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=A7NPcEPn7On9JEen%2BY1pNTDc%2FmVyWocKRi78HZTkI6c%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas/</a></span></span></p><p></p></div>
    
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		<p><i>This story is provided by AARP Texas. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/texas/" target="_blank">AARP Texas</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p>
	
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			<header><h1 class="article-headline">AARP Texas Facebook Live on Romance Scams and the  Hidden Dangers of Online Love</h1></header>	
						<div class="posted-on">
				Posted on 08/20/24 
				by <b>Mark Hollis</b>			</div>
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        </div><p>In this age of digital connectivity, many people are forming friendships and potential love interests through social media, mobile game apps, and online dating sites. <br><br>While these platforms can be wonderful ways to meet new people, it's crucial to remember that not everyone online has good intentions. Cyberspace is full of scammers eager to take advantage of lonely hearts, and their ranks are growing.<br><br>Romance scams can overlap with or evolve into other forms of fraud. For example, <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/info-2022/international-phone-scammers-target-consumers.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">international criminal gangs</a></span></span> use dating sites to recruit unwitting <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/info-2021/money-mule-romance-scam.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">“money mules”</a></span></span> to launder ill-gotten funds through their bank accounts or other means. And con artists are increasingly luring supposed sweethearts into <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/info-2021/cryptocurrency-romance-scams.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">fraudulent cryptocurrency investments</a></span></span>.<br><br>AARP Texas invites you to the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><b><u>AARP Texas Facebook page</u></b></a></span></span> for a live conversation at <b>11 a.m. CT Wednesday, Sept. 4, </b>to learn about the toll of being a romance scam victim, how to protect yourself, and where to find support if you have been target.<br><br>During the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Facebook Live event</a></span></span>, we'll bring experts into the conversation to help you better understand the warning signs of a scam, ways to protect yourself and others, and what to do if you think you've fallen victim to a scam. <br><br>Experts on the call will include:<br></p><ul><li>Leigha Simonton, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Texas.</li><li>Adam Schneider, Special Agent in Charge of the Social Security Administration – Office of Inspector General Dallas Field Division.</li><li>Donna Strittmatter Max, Assistant United States Attorney in the Northern District of Texas.</li></ul><p>Details of the event are:<br><br></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b>AARP Texas Facebook Live on</b></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b>Texas Romance Scams </b></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b>11 a.m. to Noon CT</b></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b>Wednesday, Sept. 4, 2024</b></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b>Visit the </b><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><b>AARP Texas channel on Facebook</b></a></span></span></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center">Or enter this address in your internet browser: <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FAARPTexas%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7Cmhollis%40aarp.org%7C6898a40962cb4a82b87a08dcc855bd1b%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638605517766925639%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=A7NPcEPn7On9JEen%2BY1pNTDc%2FmVyWocKRi78HZTkI6c%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas/</a></span></span></p><p></p></div>
    
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		<p><i>This story is provided by AARP Texas. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/texas/" target="_blank">AARP Texas</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p>
	
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			<header><h1 class="article-headline">AARP Texas Facebook Live on Romance Scams and the  Hidden Dangers of Online Love</h1></header>	
						<div class="posted-on">
				Posted on 08/20/24 
				by <b>Mark Hollis</b>			</div>
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        </div><p>In this age of digital connectivity, many people are forming friendships and potential love interests through social media, mobile game apps, and online dating sites. <br><br>While these platforms can be wonderful ways to meet new people, it's crucial to remember that not everyone online has good intentions. Cyberspace is full of scammers eager to take advantage of lonely hearts, and their ranks are growing.<br><br>Romance scams can overlap with or evolve into other forms of fraud. For example, <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/info-2022/international-phone-scammers-target-consumers.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">international criminal gangs</a></span></span> use dating sites to recruit unwitting <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/info-2021/money-mule-romance-scam.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">“money mules”</a></span></span> to launder ill-gotten funds through their bank accounts or other means. And con artists are increasingly luring supposed sweethearts into <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/info-2021/cryptocurrency-romance-scams.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">fraudulent cryptocurrency investments</a></span></span>.<br><br>AARP Texas invites you to the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><b><u>AARP Texas Facebook page</u></b></a></span></span> for a live conversation at <b>11 a.m. CT Wednesday, Sept. 4, </b>to learn about the toll of being a romance scam victim, how to protect yourself, and where to find support if you have been target.<br><br>During the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Facebook Live event</a></span></span>, we'll bring experts into the conversation to help you better understand the warning signs of a scam, ways to protect yourself and others, and what to do if you think you've fallen victim to a scam. <br><br>Experts on the call will include:<br></p><ul><li>Leigha Simonton, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Texas.</li><li>Adam Schneider, Special Agent in Charge of the Social Security Administration – Office of Inspector General Dallas Field Division.</li><li>Donna Strittmatter Max, Assistant United States Attorney in the Northern District of Texas.</li></ul><p>Details of the event are:<br><br></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b>AARP Texas Facebook Live on</b></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b>Texas Romance Scams </b></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b>11 a.m. to Noon CT</b></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b>Wednesday, Sept. 4, 2024</b></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b>Visit the </b><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><b>AARP Texas channel on Facebook</b></a></span></span></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center">Or enter this address in your internet browser: <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FAARPTexas%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7Cmhollis%40aarp.org%7C6898a40962cb4a82b87a08dcc855bd1b%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638605517766925639%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=A7NPcEPn7On9JEen%2BY1pNTDc%2FmVyWocKRi78HZTkI6c%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas/</a></span></span></p><p></p></div>
    
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		<p><i>This story is provided by AARP Texas. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/texas/" target="_blank">AARP Texas</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p>
	
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			<header><h1 class="article-headline">AARP Texas Facebook Live on Romance Scams and the  Hidden Dangers of Online Love</h1></header>	
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				Posted on 08/20/24 
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        </div><p>In this age of digital connectivity, many people are forming friendships and potential love interests through social media, mobile game apps, and online dating sites. <br><br>While these platforms can be wonderful ways to meet new people, it's crucial to remember that not everyone online has good intentions. Cyberspace is full of scammers eager to take advantage of lonely hearts, and their ranks are growing.<br><br>Romance scams can overlap with or evolve into other forms of fraud. For example, <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/info-2022/international-phone-scammers-target-consumers.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">international criminal gangs</a></span></span> use dating sites to recruit unwitting <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/info-2021/money-mule-romance-scam.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">“money mules”</a></span></span> to launder ill-gotten funds through their bank accounts or other means. And con artists are increasingly luring supposed sweethearts into <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/info-2021/cryptocurrency-romance-scams.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">fraudulent cryptocurrency investments</a></span></span>.<br><br>AARP Texas invites you to the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><b><u>AARP Texas Facebook page</u></b></a></span></span> for a live conversation at <b>11 a.m. CT Wednesday, Sept. 4, </b>to learn about the toll of being a romance scam victim, how to protect yourself, and where to find support if you have been target.<br><br>During the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Facebook Live event</a></span></span>, we'll bring experts into the conversation to help you better understand the warning signs of a scam, ways to protect yourself and others, and what to do if you think you've fallen victim to a scam. <br><br>Experts on the call will include:<br></p><ul><li>Leigha Simonton, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Texas.</li><li>Adam Schneider, Special Agent in Charge of the Social Security Administration – Office of Inspector General Dallas Field Division.</li><li>Donna Strittmatter Max, Assistant United States Attorney in the Northern District of Texas.</li></ul><p>Details of the event are:<br><br></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b>AARP Texas Facebook Live on</b></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b>Texas Romance Scams </b></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b>11 a.m. to Noon CT</b></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b>Wednesday, Sept. 4, 2024</b></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b>Visit the </b><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><b>AARP Texas channel on Facebook</b></a></span></span></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center">Or enter this address in your internet browser: <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FAARPTexas%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7Cmhollis%40aarp.org%7C6898a40962cb4a82b87a08dcc855bd1b%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638605517766925639%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=A7NPcEPn7On9JEen%2BY1pNTDc%2FmVyWocKRi78HZTkI6c%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas/</a></span></span></p><p></p></div>
    
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		<p><i>This story is provided by AARP Texas. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/texas/" target="_blank">AARP Texas</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p>
	
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			<header><h1 class="article-headline">AARP Texas Facebook Live on Romance Scams and the  Hidden Dangers of Online Love</h1></header>	
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				Posted on 08/20/24 
				by <b>Mark Hollis</b>			</div>
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        </div><p>In this age of digital connectivity, many people are forming friendships and potential love interests through social media, mobile game apps, and online dating sites. <br><br>While these platforms can be wonderful ways to meet new people, it's crucial to remember that not everyone online has good intentions. Cyberspace is full of scammers eager to take advantage of lonely hearts, and their ranks are growing.<br><br>Romance scams can overlap with or evolve into other forms of fraud. For example, <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/info-2022/international-phone-scammers-target-consumers.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">international criminal gangs</a></span></span> use dating sites to recruit unwitting <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/info-2021/money-mule-romance-scam.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">“money mules”</a></span></span> to launder ill-gotten funds through their bank accounts or other means. And con artists are increasingly luring supposed sweethearts into <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/info-2021/cryptocurrency-romance-scams.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">fraudulent cryptocurrency investments</a></span></span>.<br><br>AARP Texas invites you to the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><b><u>AARP Texas Facebook page</u></b></a></span></span> for a live conversation at <b>11 a.m. CT Wednesday, Sept. 4, </b>to learn about the toll of being a romance scam victim, how to protect yourself, and where to find support if you have been target.<br><br>During the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Facebook Live event</a></span></span>, we'll bring experts into the conversation to help you better understand the warning signs of a scam, ways to protect yourself and others, and what to do if you think you've fallen victim to a scam. <br><br>Experts on the call will include:<br></p><ul><li>Leigha Simonton, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Texas.</li><li>Adam Schneider, Special Agent in Charge of the Social Security Administration – Office of Inspector General Dallas Field Division.</li><li>Donna Strittmatter Max, Assistant United States Attorney in the Northern District of Texas.</li></ul><p>Details of the event are:<br><br></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b>AARP Texas Facebook Live on</b></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b>Texas Romance Scams </b></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b>11 a.m. to Noon CT</b></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b>Wednesday, Sept. 4, 2024</b></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b>Visit the </b><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><b>AARP Texas channel on Facebook</b></a></span></span></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center">Or enter this address in your internet browser: <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FAARPTexas%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7Cmhollis%40aarp.org%7C6898a40962cb4a82b87a08dcc855bd1b%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638605517766925639%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=A7NPcEPn7On9JEen%2BY1pNTDc%2FmVyWocKRi78HZTkI6c%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas/</a></span></span></p><p></p></div>
    
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		<p><i>This story is provided by AARP Texas. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/texas/" target="_blank">AARP Texas</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p>
	
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			<header><h1 class="article-headline">AARP Texas Facebook Live on Romance Scams and the  Hidden Dangers of Online Love</h1></header>	
						<div class="posted-on">
				Posted on 08/20/24 
				by <b>Mark Hollis</b>			</div>
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        </div><p>In this age of digital connectivity, many people are forming friendships and potential love interests through social media, mobile game apps, and online dating sites. <br><br>While these platforms can be wonderful ways to meet new people, it's crucial to remember that not everyone online has good intentions. Cyberspace is full of scammers eager to take advantage of lonely hearts, and their ranks are growing.<br><br>Romance scams can overlap with or evolve into other forms of fraud. For example, <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/info-2022/international-phone-scammers-target-consumers.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">international criminal gangs</a></span></span> use dating sites to recruit unwitting <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/info-2021/money-mule-romance-scam.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">“money mules”</a></span></span> to launder ill-gotten funds through their bank accounts or other means. And con artists are increasingly luring supposed sweethearts into <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/info-2021/cryptocurrency-romance-scams.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">fraudulent cryptocurrency investments</a></span></span>.<br><br>AARP Texas invites you to the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><b><u>AARP Texas Facebook page</u></b></a></span></span> for a live conversation at <b>11 a.m. CT Wednesday, Sept. 4, </b>to learn about the toll of being a romance scam victim, how to protect yourself, and where to find support if you have been target.<br><br>During the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Facebook Live event</a></span></span>, we'll bring experts into the conversation to help you better understand the warning signs of a scam, ways to protect yourself and others, and what to do if you think you've fallen victim to a scam. <br><br>Experts on the call will include:<br></p><ul><li>Leigha Simonton, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Texas.</li><li>Adam Schneider, Special Agent in Charge of the Social Security Administration – Office of Inspector General Dallas Field Division.</li><li>Donna Strittmatter Max, Assistant United States Attorney in the Northern District of Texas.</li></ul><p>Details of the event are:<br><br></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b>AARP Texas Facebook Live on</b></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b>Texas Romance Scams </b></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b>11 a.m. to Noon CT</b></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b>Wednesday, Sept. 4, 2024</b></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b>Visit the </b><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><b>AARP Texas channel on Facebook</b></a></span></span></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center">Or enter this address in your internet browser: <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FAARPTexas%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7Cmhollis%40aarp.org%7C6898a40962cb4a82b87a08dcc855bd1b%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638605517766925639%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=A7NPcEPn7On9JEen%2BY1pNTDc%2FmVyWocKRi78HZTkI6c%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas/</a></span></span></p><p></p></div>
    
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		<p><i>This story is provided by AARP Texas. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/texas/" target="_blank">AARP Texas</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p>
	
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			<header><h1 class="article-headline">AARP Texas Facebook Live on Romance Scams and the  Hidden Dangers of Online Love</h1></header>	
						<div class="posted-on">
				Posted on 08/20/24 
				by <b>Mark Hollis</b>			</div>
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        </div><p>In this age of digital connectivity, many people are forming friendships and potential love interests through social media, mobile game apps, and online dating sites. <br><br>While these platforms can be wonderful ways to meet new people, it's crucial to remember that not everyone online has good intentions. Cyberspace is full of scammers eager to take advantage of lonely hearts, and their ranks are growing.<br><br>Romance scams can overlap with or evolve into other forms of fraud. For example, <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/info-2022/international-phone-scammers-target-consumers.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">international criminal gangs</a></span></span> use dating sites to recruit unwitting <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/info-2021/money-mule-romance-scam.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">“money mules”</a></span></span> to launder ill-gotten funds through their bank accounts or other means. And con artists are increasingly luring supposed sweethearts into <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/info-2021/cryptocurrency-romance-scams.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">fraudulent cryptocurrency investments</a></span></span>.<br><br>AARP Texas invites you to the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><b><u>AARP Texas Facebook page</u></b></a></span></span> for a live conversation at <b>11 a.m. CT Wednesday, Sept. 4, </b>to learn about the toll of being a romance scam victim, how to protect yourself, and where to find support if you have been target.<br><br>During the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Facebook Live event</a></span></span>, we'll bring experts into the conversation to help you better understand the warning signs of a scam, ways to protect yourself and others, and what to do if you think you've fallen victim to a scam. <br><br>Experts on the call will include:<br></p><ul><li>Leigha Simonton, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Texas.</li><li>Adam Schneider, Special Agent in Charge of the Social Security Administration – Office of Inspector General Dallas Field Division.</li><li>Donna Strittmatter Max, Assistant United States Attorney in the Northern District of Texas.</li></ul><p>Details of the event are:<br><br></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b>AARP Texas Facebook Live on</b></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b>Texas Romance Scams </b></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b>11 a.m. to Noon CT</b></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b>Wednesday, Sept. 4, 2024</b></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b>Visit the </b><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><b>AARP Texas channel on Facebook</b></a></span></span></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center">Or enter this address in your internet browser: <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FAARPTexas%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7Cmhollis%40aarp.org%7C6898a40962cb4a82b87a08dcc855bd1b%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638605517766925639%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=A7NPcEPn7On9JEen%2BY1pNTDc%2FmVyWocKRi78HZTkI6c%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas/</a></span></span></p><p></p></div>
    
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		<p><i>This story is provided by AARP Texas. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/texas/" target="_blank">AARP Texas</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p>
	
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				Posted on 08/20/24 
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        </div><p>In this age of digital connectivity, many people are forming friendships and potential love interests through social media, mobile game apps, and online dating sites. <br><br>While these platforms can be wonderful ways to meet new people, it's crucial to remember that not everyone online has good intentions. Cyberspace is full of scammers eager to take advantage of lonely hearts, and their ranks are growing.<br><br>Romance scams can overlap with or evolve into other forms of fraud. For example, <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/info-2022/international-phone-scammers-target-consumers.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">international criminal gangs</a></span></span> use dating sites to recruit unwitting <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/info-2021/money-mule-romance-scam.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">“money mules”</a></span></span> to launder ill-gotten funds through their bank accounts or other means. And con artists are increasingly luring supposed sweethearts into <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/info-2021/cryptocurrency-romance-scams.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">fraudulent cryptocurrency investments</a></span></span>.<br><br>AARP Texas invites you to the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><b><u>AARP Texas Facebook page</u></b></a></span></span> for a live conversation at <b>11 a.m. CT Wednesday, Sept. 4, </b>to learn about the toll of being a romance scam victim, how to protect yourself, and where to find support if you have been target.<br><br>During the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Facebook Live event</a></span></span>, we'll bring experts into the conversation to help you better understand the warning signs of a scam, ways to protect yourself and others, and what to do if you think you've fallen victim to a scam. <br><br>Experts on the call will include:<br></p><ul><li>Leigha Simonton, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Texas.</li><li>Adam Schneider, Special Agent in Charge of the Social Security Administration – Office of Inspector General Dallas Field Division.</li><li>Donna Strittmatter Max, Assistant United States Attorney in the Northern District of Texas.</li></ul><p>Details of the event are:<br><br></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b>AARP Texas Facebook Live on</b></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b>Texas Romance Scams </b></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b>11 a.m. to Noon CT</b></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b>Wednesday, Sept. 4, 2024</b></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b>Visit the </b><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><b>AARP Texas channel on Facebook</b></a></span></span></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center">Or enter this address in your internet browser: <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FAARPTexas%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7Cmhollis%40aarp.org%7C6898a40962cb4a82b87a08dcc855bd1b%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638605517766925639%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=A7NPcEPn7On9JEen%2BY1pNTDc%2FmVyWocKRi78HZTkI6c%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas/</a></span></span></p><p></p></div>
    
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		<p><i>This story is provided by AARP Texas. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/texas/" target="_blank">AARP Texas</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p>
	
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