EP142: How anyone can fall for online romance scams. Becky Holmes explains why Keanu Reeves is not in love with you

While many find their future life partner online, amidst the virtual roses hides a sneaky villain - the online romance scammer. These tricksters play with emotions, taking advantage of those just looking for a much desired connection. 

In this episode, Becky Holmes, the hilarious writer behind the @deathtospinach X/Twitter account talks about how she exposes fraudsters in (hopefully) funny ways.  What started as a lockdown boredom buster turned serious when she discovered the heartbreaking stories of scam victims. 

We talk about her X adventures, dealing with the scammers and explicit photos, and the bizarre world of script-bound scammers. Keanu Reeves pops up as the most impersonated celebrity and we explore the dark side of romance scans, funding other shady dealings.

Becky spills on the toxicity of X, the safer but not-so-safe LinkedIn, and how her experiences result in her first book 'Keanu Reeves is not in love with you' coming out in January 2024. We dive into the challenges of writing, from romance fraud to personal struggles, and how it all shaped her understanding of the psychology behind the scams. She hits home the point that anyone, regardless of who they are, can fall victim to romance fraud. Becky shares the lack of attention from law enforcement and the positive twist in her story - getting engaged during this whole adventure.  

Episode Highlight:

• Becky's engagement with scammers on X during lockdown

• The issue of explicit images on social media

• Tactics used by scammers

• Becky's book on experiences with fraud on social media platforms

• Becky's personal experiences with gaslighting and abusive relationships

CONNECT WITH BECKY

• X | @deathtospinach

• LinkedIn | Becky Holmes

• Instagram | @deathtospinach