A scoping review of online romance scams: Conceptual construction and comparative analysis
Wang, Fangzhou (2026) — International Review of Victimology
Type: Journal Article
Country: Global
Tags: victim experience, offender tactics, psychology, platform policy, money mules, prevention, scoping review, online romance scams, AFRS, InvRS, pig-butchering, typology, victim vulnerabilities, cross-border policy, PRISMA, cross-language synthesis, victimology, cross-cultural, transnational crime
This scoping review synthesizes findings from a body of 62 empirical investigations to construct a framework that differentiates two primary forms of online romance scams: advance fee romance scams and investment-based r...
“Falling into a Black Hole”: A Qualitative Exploration of the Lived Experiences of Cyberscam Victim-Survivors and Their Social Support Networks
Cazanis, Alyxandra; Carminati, Jao-Yue; Chew, Kimberly; Cross, Cassandra; Ponsford, Jennie; Gould, Kate Rachel (2025) — Victims & Offenders
Type: Journal Article
Country: Australia
This study investigates the lived experiences of cyberscam victim-survivors and their friends and family members, highlighting vulnerabilities, impacts, and support needs. Although cyberscams affect millions globally, ex...
Romance Through Digital Avatars: Online Courtship, Representation and “Catfishing” Amongst Irregular Female Migrants in Sabah
Somiah, V. (2023) — New Media in the Margins
Type: Book Chapter
Country: Singapore
Tags: victim experience
This chapter explores the phenomenon of romance scams, situating it within broader discussions of online fraud, victim vulnerabilities, and the lived experiences of those deceived. Romance scams are defined as fraudulent...
Hello Pretty, Hello Handsome!: Exploring the Menace of Online Dating and Romance Scam in Africa
Eseadi, C.; Ogbonna, CS.; Otu, MS.; Ede, MO. (2021) — Crime, Mental Health and the Criminal Justice System in Africa
Type: Book Chapter
Country: Nigeria
Tags: psychology
Online dating and romance scams are examined within criminal psychology as a growing category of deception facilitated by information and communication technology. The landscape is shaped by anonymous and semi-anonymous...
