How to Verify a Legitimate US Soldier Serving Overseas - Avoiding Scammers Online

Internet scams targeting soldiers and their families are unfortunately a reality. Posing as legitimate US soldiers, scammers often use online platforms to ask for financial assistance. This article aims to guide you on how to verify the legitimacy of a soldier serving overseas and avoid falling for such scams.

Identifying Red Flags of Military Scammers

If someone contacts you, asking for money, it is highly likely that they are a scammer, not a legitimate US soldier. Deployed soldiers do not need to beg for money as all their needs and most wants are met by the U.S. Army. Scammers often use various tactics to make you believe they are soldiers in need, but rest assured, these claims are fraudulent.

For instance, in a case where a sailor sought money for treatment of drug abuse, we know that such treatment is fully covered by the military. This emphasizes that real soldiers do not need to seek any financial assistance while deployed.

Easiest Way to Spot Scammers

The easiest way to verify if someone is a legitimate US soldier serving overseas is to look for their requests for money. Any such request is a clear sign that they are not legitimate. Legitimate soldiers are too focused on their work and communication with family and friends to be asking for money.

Legitimate soldiers have extensive logistical support, and their needs are met through the U.S. Army, including many of their 'wants' and emergencies are planned and covered before deployment. Bank or pay freezes are not a concern for them.

Common Tactics of Military Scammers

Scammers may use various online platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, or even Quora to pose as overseas soldiers. They might claim to have sob-stories or need financial help, attempting to build a relationship with you before they ask for money. However, any such initial connection or relationship building is usually just a ploy.

Scammers will tell you all sorts of lies to make you think they are genuine. They might claim to be in a war zone, injured, or in urgent need of money for travel or treatment. They may also mention that they are in a remote location, unable to communicate with their loved ones, and that their supply lines are cut off. The tactics are varied and sophisticated, but the underlying commonality is that they are all seeking your money.

Best Practices to Avoid Falling for Scams

Remember, if someone asks for money, they are not an overseas soldier. They are likely a criminal scammer. Here are a few best practices to avoid falling for such scams:

Block the person immediately if you suspect they are a scammer. Report them to the appropriate authorities or administration. Do not feed into the scammer's attempts to build a relationship or trust. Follow the age-old advice: if in doubt, don't.

Always be cautious with unsolicited requests for money, especially when they come from overseas or purport to be from the military. Stay vigilant and protect yourself from falling victim to these scams.