Beware of Online Scammers Pretending to be in Damascus, Syria

Have you ever received a message from someone claiming to be in Damascus, Syria, and asking for money or personal information? Well, you're likely dealing with a scammer. Absolutely not. Unless they are in the Syrian army, you're being scammed by a low-life fraudster attempting to steal your hard-earned money.

What to Look Out For

If you receive a message from someone saying they are in Damascus, Syria, chances are it's a scam. Today, there are dozens of such scammers using a common scheme to defraud lonely women with the promise of a military romance. If this is someone claiming to be a soldier, military doctor, or any other service member, chances are they are a fraudster.

The Truth About US Troops in Syria

According to current information, there are less than 1,000 US troops in Syria, and most of them are stationed far from Damascus. Moreover, the Internet access for these troops is extremely limited. Even if they do have limited access, it's unlikely they would be spending their precious time on the internet talking to strangers. Instead, they would be primarily communicating with family and friends.

The Scammer's Scheme

So, what do these scammers want? Here are a few of the common lies they tell:

They claim to be in desperate need of money to pay for medical care or a replacement for something lost. They fabricate stories about needing money to come home. They might even claim to be a general or have some other high-ranking position in the military.

However, it's important to note that the US military does not allow personnel to solicit money on the internet. Soldiers are paid twice a month by direct deposit to their bank accounts. They also have access to their funds for essentials like food, shelter, and medical care, which are free. Since their basic needs are met, they do not need additional money for transportation or any other reason. Their bank accounts are not frozen, and there’s nowhere to spend it anyway.

What You Should Do

Here are some steps you can take if you suspect that you are dealing with a scammer:

Block the person immediately and do not reply. Do not send any money or personal information. Report the scam to local law enforcement or the relevant authorities. Take an internet safety course to avoid falling for similar scams in the future.

It's crucial to protect yourself from such online threats. Scammers are clever, but with some knowledge and awareness, you can avoid becoming a victim. Remember, real service members have better things to do than troll or interact with strangers online. They are focused on their duties and staying in touch with their loved ones, not soliciting money.