Can You #SpotTheSigns of an Online Love Scam?

With all the dating websites and apps out there, finding love has never been easier. While many couples find their soulmate online, other less fortunate users come across scammers. In Singapore, the phenomenon of online dating has given birth to something dark: Online love scams. Though most of them are aware of such tricks, very few women believe that they could become victims.

To convince people to give them money, scammers take advantage of our lack of vigilance. Sure, we are not immune but, if you know the signs, the chances for you to protect yourself from such situations are high. A new initiative from Ogilvy Singapore for the National Crime Prevention Council (NCPC), in collaboration with the Singapore Police Force, teaches us how many kinds of scams there are, what tactics are used in such a despicable money-making strategy, and what we can do if we have been targeted.

Unfortunately, Ella fell into the trap of such a scammer, being the victim of fraud and eventually experiencing love deception. Her story can be seen in the video made to promote NCPC’s message that people should “Spot the signs. Stop the crimes.” The plot is inspired by reality and delivers a love story that takes a dramatic turn for Ella.

Ella found Brandon online and, with each message they send to each other, their feelings seem to be getting stronger and stronger. Despite never having met offline, because of the man’s work travels, which stand as an obstacle in their attempt to meet, their love grows. When the day the two should meet finally comes, an unexpected event makes Brandon miss the date again.

Nicolas Courant, Chief Creative Officer, Ogilvy Singapore, said: “Over the years, anti-scam advertising has become a blind spot for the audience. In order to create the right impact with this film, we wanted the audience to feel like they have been scammed to raise awareness on how easily anyone can fall for the possibilities of a love story.”

The film focuses on internet love scams. It will run across TV, social media, and various online channels, urging Singaporeans to spot the signs so that such crimes won’t happen anymore. The campaign is supported by a website, where users can read more about other scams such as E-commerce, loan, impersonation, and credit-for-sex alongside tips on how to protect themselves.