The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) has sounded the alarm on the increasing threat of online romance and swindling schemes, especially aimed at overseas Filipino workers (OFWs).
A recent incident involves a Filipina OFW based in Switzerland who was deceived by an online individual posing as a ‘rich foreigner boyfriend’. The scammer conned her out of CHF 40,000 (Swiss francs), equivalent to approximately P2.5-million, extracted from her personal savings and loans.
The DMW’s message to the public was clear and resolute, with MWO Geneva emphasizing in its report, “We plea to our countrymen to not be deceived by online love scams. Do not be swayed by sweet words from those you have never met. Numerous victims have been reported from various countries. We must remain vigilant and value our hard-earned money that comes from our sweat and blood.”
In the cited scam method, the perpetrator pretends to be a wealthy foreigner, forming a bond and gaining the trust of the victim. Upon securing their trust, they lure the victim into sending money, promising to send back a larger sum in return. However, the scammer would then feign “customs-related issues” and manipulate the victim into remitting more funds.
The DMW strongly encourages OFWs to remain vigilant. They stated, “OFWs should maintain caution and avoid giving any of their hard-earned money to so-called ‘online romantic partners.”
To report suspicious activities related to online scams or illegal recruitment, individuals can reach out to the DMW Migrant Workers Protection Bureau via their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/airbranch, email at mwpb@dmw.gov.ph, or by calling their hotline at 8721-0619.