Protect Yourself from Military Romance Scams: A Cautionary Guide

Online dating has brought many joys, but it also has its dark side. One dangerous trend is the military romance scam, where individuals pose as military personnel to deceive unsuspecting victims. The case of Brigadier General Andrew Glenn Goddard in Syria is a prime example of this fraudulent practice. In this article, we will discuss the reality behind these scams, how to spot them, and what you can do to protect yourself.

Myths vs. Realities

Many believe that non-Syrian generals can be stationed in Syria. However, this is simply not the case. No officers, including Brigadier Generals, are stationed in Syria without being part of special operations forces (SOF), and even they tend to avoid using social media to maintain operational security.

It is crucial to be aware of the vast amount of similar warning messages online. These scammers often target individuals who naively believe the stories they read online. In the case of Brigadier General Andrew Glenn Goddard, a common scammer narrative has been perpetuated, leading to countless victims falling for the same trap.

Real Military Personnel and Scammers

Real military personnel have a deep understanding of the rules and regulations regarding financial transactions. They would never ask for money from strangers, especially not through intermediary channels. If a so-called Brigadier General Andrew Glenn Goddard were genuine, he would not request funds for any purpose, as it would violate military ethical guidelines.

Furthermore, no military member would ask for personally identifiable information like an address or a bank account number. Additionally, legitimate military communications would always use .mil domain emails. Any email inquiries or messages should be cautious and should raise red flags if they use non-military email addresses.

Flagging Warning Signs

Here are a few key warning signs that can help you identify a potential scammer:

Long-lasting communication: Scammers often create long-lasting relationships to build trust over time. If the person you are talking to has been in contact for over two years, it’s worth investigating further. Requests for money: If they ask for money or personal information, it is highly suspicious. Military personnel do not ask for funds, especially for non-operational expenses. Geographical anomalies: A declared ‘Brigadier General’ in Syria who asks for an address in Nigeria or a transfer from a Pakistani bank is a red flag. Confused responses: A genuine military figure would not mix up operational terms or fail to use proper military terminology.

Additionally, scammers often use fabricated identities with a common theme: They might claim to be military personnel who have been detained, attacked, or are in a difficult situation in a far-off country, and need funds to return home.

Protecting Yourself and Others

It is crucial to take the following steps if you suspect you or someone you know is dealing with a scammer:

Verify the military status: Use official military resources or contact the relevant military branch directly to inquire about the person’s status. Do a thorough search: Use search engines and browse through the extensive online resources that warn about similar scams. There are numerous reports and personal stories that can help you avoid falling for these traps. Report the scam: If you or someone you know is a victim, report it to the authorities. Sharing your experience can prevent others from falling for similar scams.

Scammers target unsuspecting individuals, often preying on love and kindness. However, by remaining alert and taking the necessary precautions, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from becoming victims of military romance scams.

Remember: staying cautious and informed is the best defense. Always verify and validate any claims before engaging in any financial or personal dealings with someone online. Virtual relationships can be wonderful, but always approach them with a healthy dose of skepticism towards unrealistic and suspicious requests.