Identifying Scammers: How to Tell if an Online Boyfriend Is a Genuine Soldier
Building a deep, emotional connection with someone online can be wonderful and exciting, but it also comes with its risks. Fake soldiers or military personnel can exploit these vulnerabilities through online scams, often referred to as military romance scams. This article will guide you through the steps to ensure that your online partner is genuine and not a scam artist trying to separate you from your hard-earned money or personal information.
Myths and Realities
First and foremost, it's important to debunk some common misconceptions. If you've never met, touched, hugged, or shaken hands with someone claiming to be your online boyfriend, introduce yourself slowly. If they ask if they are really deployed, this is a red flag—true military personnel would be open about their current situation.
When meeting someone through social media, be wary if the person contacted you out of the blue. The vast majority of individuals who do this are scammers. If they claim to be in afghanistan, they are almost certainly not authentic, as the remaining US troops and diplomatic personnel left the country in 2021.
Verifying Military Claims
1. Ask for Specific Details
A genuine soldier can provide specific, verifiable information about their military service. This includes their service branch, rank, any deployments, and notable experiences they have had.
2. Check for Consistency
Syndicated stories or vague details should be met with suspicion. Inconsistencies in their background narratives might indicate they are trying to deceive you.
3. Verify Online Presence
Look for evidence of their online activity. Many military members let their guard down and share their experiences and locations on social media. Check for their name or anything related to their military life to see if it matches their claims.
4. Military Email Address
A genuine soldier should have a military email address. Email addresses for military personnel always end in .mil, not Gmail or Yahoo. Ask for their military email address and test it out separately.
5. Use Video Calls
Video calls can be another way to verify their identity. While deployed soldiers may have limited access, if they are genuine, they will likely be willing to do this.
6. Educate Yourself on Military Protocols
Being familiar with standard military procedures and terminologies can help you spot any inaccuracies or inconsistencies in their claims. This can be as simple as asking about military ranks, awards, or the latest military news.
Red Flags to Watch Out For
1. Requests for Money
If they ask for financial assistance or payment, be highly skeptical. Scammers often use this tactic to gain your trust before demanding money.
2. Non-Standard Communication
Avoid relying on the return or answer feature in emails. Instead, use a separate email or messaging app to communicate. If they refuse, it might be a sign they are attempting to deceive you.
3. Escalating Inconsistencies
Escalating inconsistencies, such as frequent changes in their stories, are common red flags. If they are unable to provide consistent information about their military life or experiences, it might be a sign that they are not genuine.
Seeking Help and Trusting Your Instincts
If you have doubts about your online boyfriend, don't hesitate to seek advice from other military personnel or trusted friends and family members. Always listen to your instincts. Trust is crucial in any relationship, and if you have suspicions, it's crucial to investigate further to ensure your safety and well-being.
The key takeaway is to approach online relationships with caution, especially when it comes to military personnel. By employing these strategies, you can protect yourself from becoming a victim of a military romance scam and ensure that the person you are connecting with is genuinely who they claim to be.