Over the years, DJK LLP has handled countless legal cases involving romance scams — especially among older adults. Through careful analysis, we’ve identified a number of common psychological and behavioral traits among the victims.

By sharing these insights, we hope to help the public — especially the elderly — recognize their own risks, stay alert, and seek legal support early.

1. Six High-Risk Traits Identified by DJK LLP Loneliness and Emotional Void Many victims are widowed, divorced, or living alone. Scammers exploit their longing for companionship by offering constant attention and affection to quickly build emotional bonds.

Idealized Expectations of Online Relationships First-time social media users often view online romance with hope and innocence, making them vulnerable to sweet-talking strangers with fake personas.

Financial Independence with Limited Online Awareness Some retirees have savings or property and aren’t financially dependent. However, they lack knowledge about online safety, making them susceptible to scams involving transfers or fake investments.

Lack of Family Interaction With children living apart or too busy, and few close friends to confide in, some elderly individuals hide their “online romances,” which delays intervention and increases losses.

Fantasy of “Late-Life Love” or Long-Distance Romance Scammers often pose as “successful overseas professionals,” creating a romantic fantasy of being “chosen” by someone high-status. Victims hesitate to question the illusion.

Strong Pride and Shame After Being Scammed Victims may feel embarrassed, refusing to report the scam or seek help, which gives fraudsters more time to escape and reduces the chance of recovery.

1. Case Study: Ms. Li’s “First Love in Her 60s” At 67, Ms. Li met a man on WeChat who claimed to be an “engineer in Australia.” He sent daily greetings and photos to earn her trust. Months later, he claimed he needed emergency investment funds and asked her to transfer 300,000 RMB.

Believing this was a test of love, she transferred her retirement funds. Afterward, he vanished. She kept silent until emotional distress led to hospitalization, where a doctor helped contact DJK LLP. We quickly began legal action, filed complaints with the platform, and helped initiate a police investigation.

1. Are You in the Romance Scam Danger Zone? Ask yourself:

Are you chatting frequently with a stranger who seems overly affectionate?

Do they avoid calls or video chats?

Have they asked for money — for investments, gifts, or emergencies?

Are you keeping this relationship a secret from your family?

If you answered “yes” to any of these, be cautious and seek legal guidance immediately.

1. DJK LLP Advice: Awareness + Action Is Your Best Defense DJK LLP urges:

Emotional needs are human — but trust must be earned.

Verify identities, don’t rely on photos or charming messages.

Pause before sending money. Sleep on it. Ask someone you trust.

If something feels off, cut contact, save evidence, and report to police or a lawyer.

We also encourage families to communicate more with their elders to prevent emotional manipulation.