SCARS Institute’s Encyclopedia of Scams™ Published Continuously for 25 Years
SCARS RomanceScamsNOW.com Turns 24 Years Old!
The Evolution of RomanceScamsNOW.com – 24 Years of Service to Scam Victims
An Official SCARS Website
Author:
• SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
Article Abstract
Founded in 2000 by Dr. Tim McGuinness, RomanceScamsNow.com is the world’s leading resource dedicated to educating the public about online romance and relationship scams in all their forms. The site provides comprehensive information and knowledge to help individuals recognize, avoid, and recover from these scams, helping to build a safer online environment for us all.
SCARS RomanceScamsNOW.com Turns 24 Years Old! Originally Started in 2000 by Dr. Tim McGuinness, Romance Scams NOW has been the leading Scam Information Website Worldwide!
What is RomanceScamsNOW.com
RomanceScamsNow.com is a dedicated resource aimed at educating the public about the dangers and intricacies of online romance scams. As a comprehensive platform, it offers a wealth of information, support, and tools to help individuals recognize, avoid, and recover from these deceptive schemes. Romance scams, which involve fraudsters creating fake identities to exploit victims emotionally and financially, have become increasingly prevalent in the digital age. The site features detailed articles, real-life stories, and preventive tips to raise awareness. Additionally, it provides avenues for victims to report scams, seek assistance, and connect with a supportive community, fostering a safer and more informed online dating experience.
About RomanceScamsNOW.com
RomanceScamsNow.com was established in response to the growing prevalence of online romance scams, which have increasingly victimized individuals worldwide. Created by Dr. Tim McGuinness, co-founder of SCARS, in 2000 under his company PerfectReputations LLC., the website emerged as a vital resource for education, support, and recovery for those affected by such fraudulent activities. SCARS, a non-profit organization, that recognized the need for a centralized platform to combat the evolving tactics of scammers who exploit emotional vulnerability for financial gain, acquired the website in 2017.
Since its inception, RomanceScamsNow.com has continuously expanded its offerings to include comprehensive articles, preventive tips, victim support knowledge, and reporting tools. The website’s mission has always been to raise awareness, educate the public, and provide a haven for victims seeking assistance and the facts about what these crimes are and do. Over the years, it has become one of the most trusted sources of information and support, aiding countless individuals in recognizing, avoiding, and recovering from romance scams. Through its ongoing efforts, SCARS RomanceScamsNow.com continues to play a crucial role in combating online fraud and building a safer online environment for everyone worldwide.
A Visual History of RomanceScamsNOW.com
To Understand All Scams, Read This:
The SCARS Institute Relationship Scams Formula Checklist
This is the Formula that all Relationship Scams Follow
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Table of Contents
Rapid Report Scammers
In the U.S. & Canada
U.S. & Canada Suicide Lifeline 988
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On Other Articles
- Cynthia Frank on The SCARS Institute Relationship Scams Formula Checklist – 2026: “As I read this I could see myself in every step with my scam. I gained a lot more knowledge…” Aug 28, 19:51
- on The Persistence of Danielle Delaunay as a Fake Identity – 2026: “Unfortunately, you are being scammed. She is using a fake name regardless. At this point, your best option is to…” Aug 26, 20:16
- on The Persistence of Danielle Delaunay as a Fake Identity – 2026: “Dear Sirs, I have met this woman with the name Abigail Boateng in Ghana. I have an intensive mail contact…” Aug 26, 12:28
- on Trauma-Induced Fear May Cause Paranoia: “Very interesting article. I’m wondering if someone would likely recognize that they’re becoming increasingly paranoid, or hypervigilant, or does it…” Aug 24, 12:07
- on Spotting AI Scams – Using AI to Catch Artificial Intelligence Scams – 2026: “Wow, very useful and thorough advice! I don’t plan on talking to any strangers online ever again, at least not…” Aug 22, 22:11
- on The Persistence of Danielle Delaunay as a Fake Identity – 2026: “Knowing they are criminals, why would you want to talk to them? Avoid all strangers online.” Aug 19, 12:54
- on The Persistence of Danielle Delaunay as a Fake Identity – 2026: “THERE ARE THREE DANIELLE DELAUNAYS ON FACEBOOK RIGHT NOW USEING HER NAME AND PHOTOS. I’M BEING TOLD THEY ARE ALL…” Aug 19, 11:15
- on Natalie Sparks: Have You Seen Her? Another Stolen Face / Stolen Identity: “John, we are sorry, but you are still being scammed.” Aug 19, 09:52
- on #1 Worldwide – SCARS Anyscam.com: “You have been scammed. The unfortunate part about the images is difficult to address. You can learn more about Sextortion…” Aug 19, 09:48
- on SCARS™ Scam News Now: Six Ghanaian Scammers Arrested in the U.K. For Online Fraud: “Ann, recognizing that it was a scam is the first step in healing. We can help in your after-scam healing…” Aug 19, 09:47
ARTICLE META
Important Information for New Scam Victims
- Please visit www.ScamVictimsSupport.org – a SCARS Website for New Scam Victims & Sextortion Victims
- Enroll in FREE SCARS Scam Survivor’s School now at www.SCARSeducation.org
- Please visit www.ScamPsychology.org – to more fully understand the psychological concepts involved in scams and scam victim recovery
If you are looking for local trauma counselors please visit counseling.AgainstScams.org or join SCARS for our counseling/therapy benefit: membership.AgainstScams.org
If you need to speak with someone now, you can dial 988 or find phone numbers for crisis hotlines all around the world here: www.opencounseling.com/suicide-hotlines
A Note About Labeling!
We often use the term ‘scam victim’ in our articles, but this is a convenience to help those searching for information in search engines like Google. It is just a convenience and has no deeper meaning. If you have come through such an experience, YOU are a Survivor! It was not your fault. You are not alone! Axios!
A Question of Trust
At the SCARS Institute, we invite you to do your own research on the topics we speak about and publish, Our team investigates the subject being discussed, especially when it comes to understanding the scam victims-survivors experience. You can do Google searches but in many cases, you will have to wade through scientific papers and studies. However, remember that biases and perspectives matter and influence the outcome. Regardless, we encourage you to explore these topics as thoroughly as you can for your own awareness.
Statement About Victim Blaming
SCARS Institute articles examine different aspects of the scam victim experience, as well as those who may have been secondary victims. This work focuses on understanding victimization through the science of victimology, including common psychological and behavioral responses. The purpose is to help victims and survivors understand why these crimes occurred, reduce shame and self-blame, strengthen recovery programs and victim opportunities, and lower the risk of future victimization.
At times, these discussions may sound uncomfortable, overwhelming, or may be mistaken for blame. They are not. Scam victims are never blamed. Our goal is to explain the mechanisms of deception and the human responses that scammers exploit, and the processes that occur after the scam ends, so victims can better understand what happened to them and why it felt convincing at the time, and what the path looks like going forward.
Articles that address the psychology, neurology, physiology, and other characteristics of scams and the victim experience recognize that all people share cognitive and emotional traits that can be manipulated under the right conditions. These characteristics are not flaws. They are normal human functions that criminals deliberately exploit. Victims typically have little awareness of these mechanisms while a scam is unfolding and a very limited ability to control them. Awareness often comes only after the harm has occurred.
By explaining these processes, these articles help victims make sense of their experiences, understand common post-scam reactions, and identify ways to protect themselves moving forward. This knowledge supports recovery by replacing confusion and self-blame with clarity, context, and self-compassion.
Additional educational material on these topics is available at ScamPsychology.org – ScamsNOW.com and other SCARS Institute websites.
Psychology Disclaimer:
All articles about psychology and the human brain on this website are for information & education only
The information provided in this article is intended for educational and self-help purposes only and should not be construed as a substitute for professional therapy or counseling.
While any self-help techniques outlined herein may be beneficial for scam victims seeking to recover from their experience and move towards recovery, it is important to consult with a qualified mental health professional before initiating any course of action. Each individual’s experience and needs are unique, and what works for one person may not be suitable for another.
Additionally, any approach may not be appropriate for individuals with certain pre-existing mental health conditions or trauma histories. It is advisable to seek guidance from a licensed therapist or counselor who can provide personalized support, guidance, and treatment tailored to your specific needs.
If you are experiencing significant distress or emotional difficulties related to a scam or other traumatic event, please consult your doctor or mental health provider for appropriate care and support.
Also read our SCARS Institute Statement about Professional Care for Scam Victims – click here to go to our ScamsNOW.com website.
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