Gander International Airport is cautioning individuals about deceitful catfishing schemes through a recent social media post. The airport’s CEO, Reg Wright, disclosed that numerous instances of heartbreaks have been observed at arrival gates in recent months, with approximately half a dozen cases known within a small market area.
Wright was made aware of the issue by the airport’s safety director, who recounted an incident involving a woman arriving in anticipation of a nonexistent loved one. The emotional toll on the deceived individual and the airport staff witnessing these scenarios is described as distressing by Wright.
Primarily targeting seniors, these catfishing scams often involve victims waiting for hours before realizing the truth. Wright emphasized the exploitation of the human desire for love and connection, noting the frequent involvement of financial transactions in these scams.
Although it is not within the airport’s authority to confirm catfishing incidents, Wright highlighted the importance of caution and vigilance in relationships. He emphasized the prevalence of such scams nationwide and their impact on vulnerable individuals, likening them to a cybercrime epidemic akin to identity theft.
