Romance Scams Intensify as Victims Turn into Accomplices

A new twist in romance scams involves victims being manipulated into becoming 'money mules,' complicating legal proceedings.

A yearlong investigation reveals that romance scammers are increasingly turning victims into unwitting accomplices, known as 'money mules'.
Victims, manipulated by scammers, help move stolen funds, creating complex challenges for law enforcement.
Legal dilemmas arise as prosecutors must decide how to charge those who transition from being scam victims to perpetrators.
The FBI has developed psychological profiles to better understand and address the 'money mule' phenomenon.
High-profile cases, like that of Laura Kowal, highlight the severe consequences of these scams, including substantial financial losses and legal entanglements.