Romance Baiting: Reframing the Narrative Around Online Cryptocurrency Scams

In the shadowy realm of online fraud, a particularly cunning scheme has risen to prominence: scammers exploit the promise of love to dupe victims into fraudulent cryptocurrency investments. Known previously as "pig butchering," this terminology, while descriptive of the scammers' process, has drawn criticism for being dehumanizing and stigmatizing toward victims. To address this, organizations like INTERPOL are advocating for a more empathetic term: "romance baiting."

This rebranding not only accurately captures the essence of these scams but also fosters a supportive environment for victims, empowering them to report crimes without fear of judgment or shame.

What Is Romance Baiting?

Romance baiting is a form of online fraud where scammers pose as potential romantic partners to build trust with their victims. These interactions often begin on dating apps, social media platforms, or messaging services. Once an emotional connection is established, the scammer introduces the victim to a seemingly lucrative investment opportunity, typically involving cryptocurrency.

Victims are directed to counterfeit investment platforms or manipulated into transferring money directly to the scammer. By the time they realize the deception, the funds—and often the scammer—are gone.

The Case for "Romance Baiting"

The term "pig butchering," derived from a Chinese phrase used by scammers to describe "fattening" their victims emotionally before financial "slaughter," has drawn criticism for its derogatory tone. Using such a term risks alienating victims, many of whom already feel embarrassed or ashamed after falling prey to these scams.

"Romance baiting," on the other hand, shifts the focus to the deceptive nature of the scam, rather than the victim's perceived gullibility. This change aligns with broader efforts to promote victim empathy, reduce stigma, and encourage reporting of cybercrimes.

The Scale of the Problem

Romance baiting scams have seen a dramatic rise in recent years, with devastating financial and emotional consequences for victims. In the United States alone, the Federal Trade Commission reported that in 2022, more than 60% of reported losses to romance scams involved cryptocurrency. These scams often result in life-altering financial losses, as victims drain savings or take loans under false pretenses.

Globally, law enforcement agencies are taking action. For example, in December 2024, Nigerian authorities arrested nearly 800 individuals involved in such scams, illustrating the international scale of the problem. However, many cases remain unreported due to the stigma surrounding these crimes, further emphasizing the importance of compassionate language.

Why Language Matters

Shifting to "romance baiting" is more than a semantic change. It reflects a broader commitment to tackling online scams with sensitivity and precision. Empathetic language can:

1. Encourage Reporting: Victims are more likely to come forward when they feel understood and supported.
2. Raise Awareness: Clear and relatable terms help the public recognize and avoid such scams.
3. Strengthen Law Enforcement Efforts: Increased reporting leads to better intelligence and more targeted enforcement actions.

How to Protect Yourself

While advocating for better terminology, it is equally important to educate potential victims about prevention. Here are some tips:

• Be cautious of online relationships: Especially if someone quickly brings up investments or asks for money.
• Verify platforms: Before investing in cryptocurrency, ensure the platform is legitimate and registered.
• Trust your instincts: If something feels too good to be true, it probably is.

Conclusion

"Romance baiting" represents a step forward in how society addresses and combats these scams. By adopting this terminology, we can create a more inclusive and supportive environment for victims while raising awareness of the deceptive practices that fuel such crimes. Ultimately, compassion and understanding are as essential as enforcement in the fight against online fraud.

As highlighted in the article on romance baiting scams, cybercriminals are increasingly using deceptive tactics to exploit victims emotionally and financially. MSCS Support Remote (www.support-remote.org) plays a critical role in combating these scams by providing essential support services to victims and equipping users with the tools and knowledge to stay protected.