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It starts with something small, a text that feels oddly familiar. Maybe it says, "Hey, how are you?" or "Are you coming to the BBQ?" Before you know it, you're in a friendly back-and-forth with someone who seems genuine. But soon, that casual conversation takes a sharp turn toward money.

That's exactly what happened to John from Alabama.

"I received a text from someone in California inviting me to a BBQ. We've been texting, and now she wants me to trade gold through WEEX. Is this safe or a scam? I'm 74, she's 36." – John, Huntsville, Alabama

John's story may sound like a one-off, but it's part of a growing trend where scammers use personal charm to build trust and then push victims into risky online "investments."

SCAMMERS

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