INTERPOL is advocating for a shift in terminology regarding online scams, urging the use of “romance baiting” instead of the term “pig butchering.” This change aims to reduce the dehumanization of victims, encouraging them to seek help rather than feeling ashamed. Romance baiting refers to scams where victims are manipulated into investing in fake cryptocurrency schemes under the guise of romantic relationships, often involving organized crime groups. These scams have become widespread since their inception in China around 2016. INTERPOL emphasizes that language matters and highlights the need for empathy towards victims while holding scammers accountable for their deceptive practices.
INTERPOL Calls for Change in Terminology: From “Pig Butchering” to “Romance Baiting”
Date: Dec 18, 2024
Author: Ravie Lakshmanan
Tags: Cyber Fraud, Social Engineering
In a significant move against online scams, INTERPOL is urging a shift in language concerning fraudulent activities tied to romantic relationships. The agency wants to replace the term “pig butchering,” which describes scams where victims are tricked into investing in fake cryptocurrency schemes, with the more empathetic term “romance baiting.” This change aims to combat the stigma that surrounds victims and encourage them to speak up about their experiences.
The concept of “pig butchering” is rooted in a Chinese phrase that translates to fattening up a pig before slaughter, and it has been linked to serious financial losses for countless individuals worldwide. Scammers often engage with potential victims over social media and dating apps, gradually building trust before leading them to make non-existent investments. The rise of these scams since their inception in China around 2016 has been alarming, with organized crime groups now exploiting this method on a global scale.
INTERPOL emphasizes that using terms like “romance baiting” not only acknowledges the psychological tactics employed by fraudsters but also places the focus on the perpetrators rather than the victims. Cyril Gout, Acting Executive Director of Police Services at INTERPOL, stated that language can deeply impact victims. By changing our terminology, we can promote respect and an understanding of the vulnerabilities that scammers exploit.
These scams have led to severe implications, including human trafficking, as victims are often forced into scam operations against their will and subjected to harsh conditions. Cybersecurity experts warn that organized crime networks run these scams, utilizing sophisticated websites and apps to appear legitimate.
The call for change in terminology is not merely about language; it is a plea for sensitivity towards victims of cyber fraud. By adopting the term “romance baiting,” INTERPOL aims to encourage more individuals to report scams and seek help without fear of judgment.
As this initiative gains traction, it highlights the need for ongoing awareness and education about online fraud. With the technology and tactics employed by scammers continually evolving, staying informed is crucial for protecting oneself from becoming a victim.
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What is “romance baiting”?
Romance baiting is a scam where someone pretends to be romantically interested in another person to trick them into sending money or personal information.
Why are scams like romance baiting on the rise?
These scams are getting more common because people are using online dating more than ever. Scammers pick targets who are looking for love and trust them easily.
How does “romance baiting” differ from “pig butchering”?
While both terms describe scams, romance baiting focuses on fake romantic relationships, whereas pig butchering involves building trust over time before asking for large sums of money related to investments or business opportunities.
What can I do to avoid falling for romance baiting?
To stay safe, be cautious about sharing personal information online, watch for signs of a scam, and pay attention to red flags like requests for money or urgent emotional appeals.
Where can I report a romance baiting scam?
If you think you’ve encountered a romance baiting scam, report it to your local authorities, your country’s fraud agency, or online platforms where the communication happened. Reporting helps protect others from these scams.
