Why Scammers Pretend to be Deployed Soldiers Asking for Money

Have you ever encountered someone asking for money to pay for paperwork before they come home from the military? More often than not, this could be a sign of a military romance scammer or a fraudulent attempt to obtain your personal information or money. In this article, we will explore why and how scammers use this tactic, and what you can do to protect yourself from such scams.

The Truth Behind the Scam

It's important to understand that deployed soldiers do not pay for paperwork or any other expenses to come home. Military travel is coordinated through a system that ensures all service members return home together at the end of their deployment. This process is managed by the military and does not require any personal funds from the servicemembers. If someone is asking you for money under such pretenses, they are most likely trying to defraud you.

Common Scam Tactics

Scammers often use emotional appeals to gain your trust and elicit sympathy. They might claim to be deployed overseas, separated from their loved ones, and in need of help with paperwork or transportation costs back home. Here are some common tactics used by scammers:

Text Messages and Emails

Scammers may send messages or emails that appear to be from someone in the military, claiming to be stranded in a foreign country or in need of funds to return home. They might say they have lost their identification or are unable to send documents back home due to administrative issues.

Northern Nigeria Scam

Some scammers may pose as Northern Nigerian soldiers or claim to be involved in military operations. They might ask for donations to help them obtain necessary supplies or to fund their return home, which is highly unusual as the military handles these expenses.

What to Look Out For

Here are some red flags and tips to help you identify and avoid such scams:

Red Flags

The person is asking for money to pay for paperwork or travel documents. The individual claims to be deployed overseas but does not provide any military documentation. They ask for personal details such as your bank account information or credit card numbers. They create a sense of urgency and urgency by saying they need funds by a certain date. The person has poor command of the English language or awkward phrasing.

Take Action

If you suspect that you are being scammed, here are steps you can take:

Cut Off Contact

Immediately stop all communication with the scammer. Do not send any money, gift cards, or personal details. Block their phone number or email address.

Report the Scam

Report the scam to the social media platform where you encountered the scammer. You can also report it to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or local law enforcement.

Support Systems

Enlist the help of family and friends who can remind you to be wary of such scams. Consider sharing your experience online to help raise awareness.

Remember, deployed U.S. soldiers do not pay to ship personal papers or any other documents back home. Should you ever encounter such a request, it is almost certainly a scam. By staying vigilant and sharing information, you can help others avoid falling victim to these schemes.