If a celebrity flirts with you online, watch your bank account

CUYAHOGA COUNTY, OH – This Valentine's Day, Cuyahoga County's Scam Squad is reminding residents to be aware of online scammers impersonating celebrities to ask fans for money.

“Residents have told us that they or a family member have lost money to scammers posing as Pauley Perrette of NCIS or singer Michael Bolton, among others,” said Sheryl Harris, Director of the Cuyahoga County Department of Consumer Affairs. “The scams use romance – or the promise of romance – to convince people to send money or invest in fictional ventures.”

Romance scams can happen throughout the year. Some stars – including actors Sandra Bullock and Johnny Depp - have publicly denounced scams that took funds from smitten fans.

Here are some signs of a celebrity romance scam:

• A celebrity compliments you on social media and then quickly suggests you chat privately. Once there, you might be asked to pay a fee for a private meeting or special access.
• You get “love bombed,” receiving constant messages and texts.
• The celebrity asks for money or suggests an investment (and connects you with a “broker” to handle it).

“Romance Scams can be financially and emotionally devastating," Harris said. "They can also cause rifts between those targeted and the real-life people who love them."

If you are sending money to someone you only know online, or know someone who is, call the Scam Squad line at 216-443-7226.