TOLEDO, Ohio – A Toledo woman in her seventies, who prefers to remain anonymous, is speaking out after losing $10,000 to romance scammers. Her story highlights a surge in fraud targeting seniors, a trend the Ohio Attorney General’s Office is working to curb.
How the scam unfolded
The victim said she first encountered the fraud after commenting on a social‑media post about actor Jason Momoa. Impostors posing as the actor began texting her, showering her with compliments and promises of love – a classic “love‑bombing” tactic.
“They tell you how beautiful you are, how much they love you, and they want to marry you,” she recalled. The attention was especially comforting for her, as a heart condition often keeps her home alone for long periods.
Financial loss and emotional impact
Over the course of a year, the scammers asked for personal information and money, including gift‑card purchases. The woman estimates she lost $10,000 and is now two months behind on rent. She has filed a police report and is receiving assistance from a case manager at the local Office on Aging.
Statewide data and Attorney General response
According to the Ohio Attorney General’s Office, the FBI reports that Americans aged 60 and older lost $584 million to romance scams in 2025 – a 50 percent increase from the previous year. The Attorney General’s Office warns that actual losses are likely higher because many victims do not report the crimes.
Attorney General Andy Wilson has launched a dedicated hotline (1‑855‑961‑SCAM) for anyone who suspects they or a loved one may be a victim. Calls are screened for signs of fraud, and callers are connected with resources such as counseling, legal aid, and financial‑recovery assistance.
Advice for seniors and families
The Toledo victim urges others to be cautious: “Beware. Listen to me. You’ve got to make other friends because this is not the answer. You don’t want to talk to these scammers. They’re not your friend. They are there to steal from you, steal your money.”
She recommends that seniors limit online interactions with strangers, verify identities through multiple channels, and involve trusted family members before sending money or personal data.
Community resources
Local organizations, including the Office on Aging and senior‑center groups, are offering workshops on internet safety and fraud awareness. Residents can also contact the Ohio Attorney General’s hotline for guidance.
By sharing her experience, the Toledo senior hopes to protect other older adults from falling prey to similar schemes and to encourage a community‑wide effort to combat romance fraud.
Original reporting: 13abc WTVG Toledo (news) — read the source article.
