Woman in Japan Loses Thousands to Romance Scammer Pretending to Be an Astronaut in Distress, Police Say
A heart-wrenching story from Japan highlights the dark and deceptive world of romance scams that exploit vulnerable people seeking love and connection online. An octogenarian woman from northern Japan lost thousands of dollars after falling for a man who falsely claimed to be an astronaut in distress aboard a spaceship. The scammer preyed on her emotions, fabricating a dramatic tale of danger in space to extract money under the guise of an urgent need for oxygen supplies.
The Astronaut in Distress Romance Scam
The woman, who lives alone on Hokkaido Island, first connected with the scammer in July through social media. The man presented himself as a male astronaut currently in space, sharing messages designed to gain her trust and affection. As their communication progressed, the scammer concocted a crisis scenario, claiming his spaceship was under attack and he was running out of oxygen. This emotional manipulation convinced the woman to send around 1 million yen — approximately $6,700 — to help him purchase oxygen and survive.
The Emotional Toll on the Victim
According to local media reports and police investigations, the woman began developing genuine feelings for the scammer as their online exchanges continued. Isolated and seeking companionship, she was vulnerable to the fraudulent narrative, further underscoring how romance scammers often exploit trust and loneliness. These scams do not just result in financial loss, they also inflict emotional trauma on victims who believed they had found a meaningful connection.
Growing Problem Among Elderly Populations
Japan, with the world's second-oldest population after Monaco, faces increasing challenges related to fraud targeting its elderly citizens. Officials warn that older adults are particularly susceptible to various scams, including impersonation of family members in distress (“it's me” scams) and deceitful claims of insurance or pension refunds requiring ATM withdrawals. Authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious demands for money or personal information, especially on social media platforms.
Worldwide Surge in Online Romance Scams
The Japanese case highlights a global trend in the rise of romance-based fraud. In the U.S., for instance, the Federal Trade Commission reported more than 64,000 victims in 2023, with losses exceeding $1 billion—doubling from just four years prior. Romance scammers have refined their tactics in the digital age, expertly manipulating victims with false identities and fabricated stories, often resulting in devastating financial consequences.
Calls for Greater Protection and Awareness
Experts and lawmakers in the U.S. and abroad are calling for increased protections on dating sites and social media platforms to safeguard users, particularly vulnerable populations like seniors. They stress the importance of education, awareness campaigns, and stricter monitoring of suspicious behaviors online. Lawmakers such as Representative Brittany Pettersen emphasize the need for technology companies to do more to detect and prevent scams before harm occurs.