Romance scam from the front lines of the $16 billion fraud crisis: 6 dead dogs, a missing $39,000, and a wronged widow

Fortune

by Amanda Gerut

February 14, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Romance scams have reached epidemic proportions in the U.S., with billions of dollars defrauded annually through sophisticated schemes targeting individuals across all walks of life. The article highlights three harrowing cases—Kate Kleinert, a widow who lost her life savings after responding to a desperate plea from a young girl; Beth Hyland, scammed by a man claiming to be a French contractor in Qatar; and Jackie Crenshaw, conned out of $1 million by a charming suitor she met on a dating app. These stories underscore how scammers exploit trust and loneliness, often using emotional manipulation and false promises to extract significant financial resources. The article provides context about the growing prevalence of these scams, which have evolved into highly organized operations preying on vulnerable individuals. Schemes range from fake gift card requests to elaborate plots involving stolen identities and overseas transactions. Michael Rod, an FBI agent specializing in elder justice, explains that scammers are professionals who meticulously study their targets, often gaining access to sensitive personal information through deceptive means. The financial impact of these scams is devastating, with victims losing not only money but also their homes, retirement savings, and life’s work. For businesses, this highlights the importance of raising awareness about financial literacy and fraud prevention. Understanding how scammers operate—such as creating fake bank accounts, using cryptocurrency transfers, or exploiting emotional bonds—is crucial for protecting oneself and others from falling victim to similar schemes. The article emphasizes that romance scams are not just a personal issue but a broader economic problem. The FBI’s efforts in tracking these crimes show that scammers often target individuals with lifetime savings, retirement funds, or those who may be emotionally vulnerable due to loss or isolation. By sharing these stories, the article aims to educate readers about the dangers of online romance scams and the need for vigilance in financial transactions. Ultimately, the article serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of verifying identities, avoiding unsolicited requests for money, and being aware of the signs of potential fraud. It also calls for stronger community and business efforts to combat this growing issue, ensuring that individuals are equipped with the knowledge and tools to protect their financial well-being.

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Originally published on Fortune on 2/14/2026