Scams & phishing
Romance and social media scams to watch for
Warning signs of romance and social media investment scams affecting adults in Forsyth County and across Georgia.
Updated 2026-07-20 · 5 min read · CyberForsyth
When attention turns into a financial ask
Romance and social-media “investment” scams thrive because they feel personal. Someone you met on a dating app or Facebook builds trust for weeks, then needs money for a flight, medical emergency, crypto tip, or customs fee.
Warning signs
- Moves off-platform quickly
- Avoids video calls with excuses
- Profession that keeps them “traveling” indefinitely
- Asks for gift cards, crypto, or wire transfers
- Gets angry when you suggest verifying identity
- “Guaranteed” investment returns shared in DMs
Protect yourself and relatives
Talk openly with family — seniors and newly single adults are frequent targets in every county, including Forsyth. Agree that large unusual transfers get a second opinion.
Never send money to someone you have not met in person through a verified path. Reverse-image search profile photos when something feels off.
After a loss
Report on ReportFraud.ftc.gov and IC3.gov. Tell your bank immediately. Emotional recovery matters too — these scams are designed to create shame that delays reporting.
Need hands-on help?
If a scam involved account takeovers or device compromise, CyberForsyth can help secure email and phones.
Sources
Public resources referenced in this guide. We are not affiliated with these organizations unless stated elsewhere.