Japan police warn of rising social media romance and investment scams

Police in Japan are investigating a rise in sophisticated social media-based scams, including romance scams and fraudulent investment schemes.

In Shiga Prefecture, a 67-year-old man lost approximately 41 million yen after being targeted through social media. The victim reportedly developed feelings for an individual posing as a Japanese woman on LINE. The perpetrator lured the victim with a scheme involving earning money by taking screenshots of news sites, which subsequently led to fraudulent investment opportunities. The victim made 12 separate transfers to designated accounts.

In Nagasaki Prefecture, reports indicate a separate instance where an individual was defrauded of 6.9 million yen through investment solicitation. Authorities are warning the public about the increasing complexity of these scams, which often involve impersonating celebrities or exploiting romantic emotions to manipulate victims.