Toronto police are investigating a significant romance scam involving fake profiles on a dating app, which resulted in a total loss of $250,000 for numerous victims. The alleged perpetrators, a 36-year-old man and a 42-year-old woman from Mississauga, were arrested after police found that they had established false online personas designed to exploit emotional vulnerabilities and trust. They are accused of persuading victims to loan them large amounts of money under the pretense of supporting a fictitious business, Ocean Global Auto Ltd.

The scammers used the name Hronek Radko and a profile picture of an unidentified individual as part of their deception. They presented themselves as a wealthy businessman operating out of the Greater Toronto Area, manipulating their victims through well-crafted narratives to foster trust and emotional investment. This approach to scamming not only showcases the calculated nature of online fraud but also highlights the emotional and financial toll it takes on victims.

As authorities take action to combat this form of fraud, the case serves as a warning to others who may become involved in online relationships. Toronto police emphasize the necessity of being cautious and vigilant when engaging with individuals on dating platforms, especially with requests for financial assistance. Victims of similar scams are encouraged to report incidents to help law enforcement disrupt such fraudulent schemes and prevent further victimization in both Canada and the United States.