SCAM LIBRARY · RELATIONSHIPS

The romance / 'pig-butchering' scam

Someone builds a romantic connection with you online, then gradually pressures you to invest money in what they claim is a profitable opportunity.

Documented by the FTC & FBI IC3 · reviewed 2026-07-06

How it works

A person contacts you through a dating app, social media, or chat and spends weeks or months building trust and affection with you. Once you feel close, they share an 'investment opportunity' or business venture and encourage you to put in money, sometimes using screenshots or fake websites to make it look legitimate. The pressure increases subtly—they may express disappointment if you hesitate, or suggest that investing together will secure your future as a couple.

Red flags

• The person avoids video calls, phone calls, or meeting in person after weeks of chatting.
• They introduce an investment opportunity and emphasize that you must act quickly or keep it secret from others.
• They offer to 'help' you start investing, asking you to download an unfamiliar app or send money to an account they control.
• When you express doubt, they reassure you emotionally while continuing to pressure you financially.

What to do

• If someone you've never met in person asks you to invest money or send cash, pause and verify their identity independently—call a trusted friend or family member to discuss it first.
• Do not download apps, create accounts, or send money based on their instructions, even if they claim to guide you through it.
• If you have already sent money or suspect this scam, report it to the Federal Trade Commission at reportfraud.ftc.gov and contact your bank or payment service immediately.