Scammers are using these schemes to influence or deceive victims, gain control of their computers, or steal personal and financial information to perpetrate fraud.

"Romance scams are growing in South Africa (SA), with increased access to the internet and the gravitation to social networks and connecting with people online. SA is actually catching up to the rest of the world when it comes to these types of scams. Basically, a lot of these scams, and social engineering play a major role in these scams, which is really when they use a person's behaviour and what they share with the world, against them. So, scammers present themselves as a person's ideal match, and they assume the characteristics of this match in all their interactions. And then once trust or bond is built, scammers will start alluding to financial struggles or asking for money," said Elmi Kemp, Communications Lead at SAFPS.

Kemp explained that social engineering is a significant factor in these scams, with perpetrators using a victim's behaviour and sharing information against them. Scammers present themselves as the victim's ideal match, building trust before alluding to financial troubles or requesting money.

The SAFPS urges the public to remain vigilant and cautious when engaging with individuals online, particularly those who quickly develop close relationships and ask for money or personal information. The rise in romance scams highlights the need for increased awareness and protective measures to safeguard against these deceitful tactics.

--SABC/ChannelAfrica--