Understand the Red Flags Before Trust Turns Into Loss

The How Romance Scams Work infographic is a 1-page digital or printable cybersecurity awareness resource that explains, step by step, how romance scams manipulate emotions to steal money and personal information. Designed for users with beginner to intermediate awareness levels, this infographic breaks down a complex and emotionally charged threat into a clear, easy-to-follow visual story.

Romance scams typically begin with a fake online profile—often using stolen photos and carefully crafted backstories—to establish trust and emotional connection. The infographic walks viewers through how scammers build rapport, move conversations off public platforms, and create urgency through fabricated emergencies or financial hardship. It highlights why these scams are especially dangerous: while younger adults are frequently targeted, seniors tend to lose significantly more money when victimized.

By showing how a romance scam unfolds from first contact to sudden disappearance, this resource helps viewers recognize warning signs early—such as requests for secrecy, pressure to send money or gift cards, or reluctance to meet in person. The tone is straightforward and non-judgmental, making it suitable for wide distribution across organizations, families, and educational settings.

This infographic is ideal for raising awareness without overwhelming users and can be custom-branded with your organization’s logo to reinforce trust and alignment with internal security or wellness initiatives.

• Share in employee newsletters or internal communications
• Post on intranet pages focused on personal safety or wellness
• Display in break rooms, community boards, or common areas
• Include in cybersecurity or fraud awareness campaigns
• Distribute as a family-facing resource, especially for seniors
• Use as a discussion starter in training sessions or workshops