Checklist: If Someone You Know Is at Risk

Use this checklist to identify red flags when you're concerned about a customer’s relationship, financial decisions, or behavior. Multiple signs may indicate active manipulation or scam grooming.

Urgent Red Flags

• Sending large sums of money or accessing retirement savings
• Plans to meet someone known only online
• Sharing personal documents (e.g., passport, driver’s license)
• Applying for loans or new credit under pressure
• Reporting threats if money stops flowing
• Cutting off friends or family who ask questions

Financial Red Flags

• Secretive about bank statements or financial behavior
• Unexplained wire transfers or cryptocurrency use
• Opening new accounts without reason
• Sending gift cards or paying with unconventional methods
• Belief in “guaranteed” returns or investment opportunities

Relationship Red Flags

• New online romantic relationship with no in-person meeting
• Excuses for avoiding video calls
• Requests for financial help due to “emergencies”
• Rapid declarations of love or emotional attachment
• Photos that look professionally staged or model-like

Communication Red Flags

• Frequent calls or texts from unknown or international numbers
• Secretive phone or internet use
• Mentions of job opportunities or sudden new online friends
• Unexpected emails or texts claiming account problems
• Contact from “government” or “bank” with urgent tone

Behavioral Red Flags

• Becoming withdrawn, anxious, or emotionally reactive
• Spending long hours online, especially at night
• Sudden excitement about new financial opportunities
• Making unusual decisions quickly or impulsively
• Defensiveness when questioned about relationships or money

What to Do

• Approach with empathy, not judgment
• Document any evidence: screenshots, messages, transactions
• Ask permission to help verify claims or research contacts
• Contact their bank to trigger fraud team support
• Use your Victim Support tools to start a conversation

Where to Report (U.S. Resources)

• FTC: reportfraud.ftc.gov
• FBI IC3: www.ic3.gov
• USPS Inspection Service: www.uspis.gov
• DOJ Elder Fraud Hotline: 833-FRAUD-11
• Local Police: Especially if threats or physical danger is involved
• Adult Protective Services (APS): For older adults or vulnerable individuals