Online Reporter
Mthokozisi Ncube
A SIMPLE Facebook friend request. A sweet “Good morning, beautiful”. A few weeks of endless compliments. Then comes the heartbreaking message: “My parcel is stuck at customs. Can you help me with just US$100?”
Across Zimbabwe, romance scams are quietly emptying wallets and breaking hearts, with more people admitting they have been conned by fake lovers they have never met.
The scammers know exactly what they are doing. They steal handsome photos from the internet, pretend to be successful businesspeople, soldiers, doctors or engineers working overseas, then spend weeks or even months building trust.
Before long, the victim is convinced they have found true love.
Then the excuses begin.
Some claim they need money for an air ticket to Zimbabwe. Others say they have expensive gifts waiting to be released at the airport. Some even fake emergencies, saying they have been robbed or involved in an accident.
The result is often the same. The victim sends money, only for the “lover” to disappear without a trace.
What makes the scams even more painful is that victims are often too embarrassed to tell anyone. Some only realise they have been duped after borrowing money from relatives or selling valuable belongings to help someone who never existed.
Netizens say the problem is growing as more Zimbabweans search for companionship online. While many genuine relationships begin on Facebook, TikTok, WhatsApp and Instagram, fraudsters are taking advantage of lonely hearts hoping to find love.
Cyber security experts warn that scammers are becoming increasingly sophisticated. Many use artificial intelligence to create convincing messages, while others work in organised groups, targeting several victims at once.
The warning signs are often there. The person refuses video calls, always has an excuse for not meeting in person and quickly starts talking about money. They shower their target with affection before asking for financial help.
Experts say anyone who meets someone online should take time to verify their identity, avoid sending money to people they have never met and speak to trusted family members before making financial decisions.
For many victims, the emotional scars last far longer than the financial losses. They are left questioning their judgement and struggling to trust again.
As technology continues to connect people across the globe, it is also giving fraudsters new ways to prey on vulnerable hearts.
The next time a stranger declares undying love after only a few days of chatting, remember one thing: genuine love waits, but scammers are always in a hurry.
