Psychiatr. praxi. 2026;27(1):52-59 | DOI: 10.36290/psy.2026.008

On-line romance scam

MUDr. Jakub Šimon
Psychiatrické oddělení, OLÚ Albertinum, Žamberk

The article examines a hidden, and serious phenomenon that has devastating psychological, social, and financial impacts. It is a relatively new type of crime that deliberately targets the fundamental human need for love and connection. The article debunks common misconceptions about the profile of victims. It explains the techniques of psychological manipulation, such as love bombing, mirroring, and the creation of a trauma bond. Through two case studies, it demonstrates how psychological manipulation and trauma manifest in the clinical presentation of victims. It addresses the challenges of differential diagnosis and argues that the seemingly delusional belief in the existence of a relationship is not a primary psychopathology but a defensive reaction to trauma. Given the nature of this phenomenon, a trauma-informed approach to treatment is emphasized.

Keywords: on-line romance scam, cybercrime, psychological manipulation, trauma, denial, induced delusion.

Accepted: March 12, 2026; Published: March 23, 2026  Show citation

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Šimon J. On-line romance scam. Psychiatr. praxi. 2026;27(1):52-59. doi: 10.36290/psy.2026.008.
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