Why scammers pretend to be soldiers
A deployment explains everything a scammer needs explained: why he can't meet, why he can't video call, why calls drop, and why he can't access his own money. Photos are stolen from real service members' social media, which is why the uniform and name tape often look right.
Check the name he gave you
Private search. They are never notified.
Requests a real service member will not make
- Money to "request leave" or buy a plane ticket home. The military handles leave and travel.
- Fees for a phone, internet or satellite connection.
- Payment to a "military agent" or "diplomat" to ship a box of valuables or release funds.
- Gift cards, crypto or wire transfers for anything.
- Help with medical bills. Service members have military health care.
How to check
- Reverse-search his photos. Stolen military photos are among the most reported on scam-photo sites.
- Search the name with a city or hometown. Often you will find the real soldier, under the same photos, with a family and a different life.
- Ask for a live video call. Deployed troops video chat with family routinely.
- Never pay anyone who claims to be a commanding officer, agent or diplomat on his behalf.