In the age of social media and online dating, digital romance is more common than ever. However, not every "relationship" is genuine. Many people fall victim to so-called online lovers who turn out to be professional scammers. DJK LLP reminds you: if someone you've met online asks for money under emotional pretenses and disappears afterward, you’re not just heartbroken—you may be the victim of a serious crime. The good news is: you can sue.

This article outlines a practical legal guide on how to seek justice and recover your losses, based on DJK LLP’s real-case experience.

1. Does Online Romance Fraud Count as a Crime? Yes. It’s likely to constitute criminal fraud.

Fraud is defined in many jurisdictions (Singapore, China, Hong Kong, etc.) as intentionally deceiving someone for financial gain, causing the victim to act under false beliefs and suffer loss.

In romance scams, the key legal elements include:

1）Deception: Fake identity, fabricated background (military officer, wealthy businessman, etc.);

2）Emotional manipulation: Fast-tracked trust and intimacy;

3）Illegal gain: Asking for money under false pretexts (e.g., medical emergencies, shipping issues);

4）Resulting loss: Victim transfers money and suffers damages.

Such behavior is punishable under criminal law and may also be subject to civil recovery.

1. Can You File a Lawsuit? Legal Paths to Consider DJK LLP suggests three major legal routes:

1）Criminal Report With proof such as chat logs, bank transfer records, and the scammer's account info, victims can report to the police.

Police may:

Open an investigation;

Trace identities and IP addresses;

Work with international law enforcement (e.g., Interpol) if the suspect is overseas.

Tip: Keep all evidence—screenshots, bank slips, emails—for the strongest case.

2）Civil Lawsuit for Damages If the scammer’s identity and assets are known, DJK LLP can help:

File a civil claim to recover the money;

Apply for asset freezing or injunctions;

Claim additional damages (interest, emotional distress, etc., subject to jurisdiction).

If funds were funneled through third-party accounts, they can be added as co-defendants.

3）Cross-Border Legal Action If the scammer is located abroad, DJK LLP offers:

Mutual legal assistance (e.g., under the Hague Convention);

International asset tracing;

Initiating lawsuits in foreign jurisdictions where applicable.

1. FAQs Q1: Can I sue if I “voluntarily” transferred money? Yes. The key issue is whether you were misled. If the transfer was based on lies and emotional manipulation, it qualifies as fraud even if it seemed “voluntary.”

Q2: The amount is small—should I still sue? Even small amounts deserve legal attention. DJK LLP also supports group litigation, where multiple victims file a joint case for stronger impact.

Q3: The scammer is abroad. What then? You can still pursue action. Through international cooperation, it’s possible to trace funds and initiate legal action in the scammer’s country.

1. DJK LLP's Support Services As a law firm specializing in cross-border financial fraud, DJK LLP offers:

Free case assessments;

Full legal document preparation;

International asset tracing and recovery;

Direct representation and legal filing;

Emotional support referrals if needed.