Investment Scam Using Dating Apps: 5 Arrested Including Marriage Counseling Company Director

Overview of the Case

On September 2, 2026, Aichi Prefectural Police arrested five individuals, including a 40-year-old director of a marriage counseling company based in Fukushima Prefecture, on fraud charges. They allegedly registered women seeking side jobs on dating apps and defrauded them of cryptocurrency.

How the Scam Works

This fraud scheme employs a multi-layered approach:

1. Targeting vulnerable individuals: Targeting women actively seeking side income opportunities
2. Dating app exploitation: Convincing victims to join dating apps
3. Building false rapport: Posing as genuine romantic interests through app conversations
4. Investment pitch: Gradually introducing cryptocurrency or investment opportunities
5. Money extraction: Obtaining cryptocurrency or payments under false pretenses

By combining romance, job-seeking vulnerability, and investment temptation, the scammers lower victims' defenses.

Warning Signs

Be cautious if you encounter:

• Rapid trust-building: Investment proposals appearing shortly after initial contact
• Guaranteed returns: Promises of "certain profits" or unusually high returns
• Urgency tactics: Pressure like "Act now or miss this opportunity"
• Exclusive framing: Language suggesting special, exclusive access
• Avoiding in-person meetings: Insistence on online-only communication
• Vague company details: Unclear or unverifiable information about the investment firm
• "Test investment" requests: Small initial payments to "verify" the system

Prevention Strategy

1. Assume investment offers on dating apps are scams: Legitimate investors don't solicit through dating platforms
2. Never decide alone: Always consult family members or trusted friends
3. Verify independently: Check company registration, address, and credentials through official channels
4. No trial payments: Refuse any request to send money, no matter how small
5. Protect personal information: Share minimal details on dating apps
6. Be skeptical of easy money: Question promises of simple, lucrative side income

Where to Report

If you suspect fraud or experience a scam:

• Police consultation hotline: #9110 (nationwide, free)
• Consumer hotline: 188 (toll-free)
• Local police: File a fraud report with your prefectural police
• Financial Services Agency: Report unlicensed investment solicitation

Don't hesitate to contact authorities immediately if something feels wrong.