Boston Police Warn of Armed 'Catfishing' Robberies

The Boston Police Department is advising the public to be aware of an ongoing robbery scheme involving online social media or dating websites.

In many cases, police said the victims are making contact with an online profile and agreeing to meet the person depicted on the profile at a specific residence. When the person arrives outside that location, they are approached by a male suspect armed with a handgun and robbed of their property, according to police.

As of now, investigators believe there have been six such incidents in the past five weeks in Boston.

The online profiles are believed to be “Catfishing,” which is a deceptive activity where a false social network account is set up for criminal purposes.

Members of the public are urged to take precautions when using social media or dating websites because it’s possible you could come across a “Catfisher”.

Here are some warning signs provided by police:

• He or she seems too good to be true. “Catfishers “will use profile pictures of very attractive people to lure victims.
• They won’t Skype or use a web cam to talk to you.
• They have an online profile that appears new or incomplete.

If you agree to meet someone based upon online contact, police recommend it be in a public place and not at a residence.

If you think you might be a potential victim of a Catfishing scheme, contact your local Boston Police District immediately.