Online Trust Is Hard To Build

September 15, 2016

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  Good morning DJ Chloe, maybe today I am ready to share my experience with a friend. I met someone here in Facebook. He told me that he is from US military and is in Syria for duty. It was April when we started chatting. It was my first time to talk to someone I do not know. He is nice and he respects me. But one day I realized that I have feelings for him. I told him not to pursue but he insisted. To make the story short I committed to an online relationship. But he is very wonderful, DJ Chloe. He knew that I was so in love with him. He even asked me to write to United Nations to allow him to leave the military. I was shocked because the process costs $1,175. He wanted me to pay for that amount so that he can come home and try to see me.

  Fortunately, I have a friend who has a husband who is also in the military. They oriented me with how US military life goes. I asked him a simple question about their course and he can’t even answer it. That’s when I found out that I am indulging myself in a scam.

  I found his photos with different names scattered on Facebook. I asked him about this and told him what I found out and to let him know that we, Filipinos, are aware of this.

  We, Filipinos, are very accommodating and hospitable even in social media. But we must be vigilant. This is a reminder for all the listeners of this station. Please hide my identity. Thank you. God bless.

  Hello there!

  Thank you for your letter. I am sure a lot can relate and I am sure some may have the same experience you’ve had.

  First of all, Syria is a war-torn country. I don’t think US soldiers there can still chat. We all know what’s happening there. Unless you don’t watch or read the news, ma’am. Baka nga wala na din internet doon ngayon.

  Yes, that’s true. Widespread na ang ganitong raket or scam sa internet. A friend of mine also was victimized. First they’ll chat with you, get your interest, ligawan ka kuno, magpapadala pa ng pictures nila and kids if the guy says he is divorced. Kukunin talaga loob mo. What happened to my friend naman she was asked to send 5,000 USD. Kesyo may project and he has the certificate from the government ek ek! When my friend smelled it’s scam she stopped talking to the guy. When in fact they chatted 24 hours, halos ‘di na siya matulog! ‘Yung 5,000 USD, naging 250 USD na lang daw kung pwede.

  So please, let’s all be vigilant. Kasi marmaing namamatay sa maling akala.

  

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