The National Reserve Bank of Tonga issued a public notice warning of a continued rise in “romance scams” affecting the community and urged people to be cautious when forming relationships via social media with individuals they do not genuinely know. The notice highlights common warning signs including rapid declarations of love, eventual requests for money for supposed emergencies or travel, refusal to meet or use video calls, pressure to move conversations to encrypted apps such as WhatsApp or Viber, and requests for payment via cryptocurrency, gift cards, or unconventional wire transfers. The NRBT also warned about scams framed as business partnership investments or promised gifts that require fees to be paid, and advised the public not to send money or personal and banking information, not to believe “quick riches” narratives, and not to rely on caller ID. Victims are advised to contact their bank to block accounts and cards and report the incident to the Tonga Police Cybercrime Unit.
National Reserve Bank of Tonga 2026-04-17
National Reserve Bank of Tonga warns the public about rising romance scams and sets out red flags and safe steps
The National Reserve Bank of Tonga has issued a public notice warning of a continued rise in romance scams targeting the community, particularly via social media. It outlines common red flags such as rapid declarations of love, requests for money, pressure to move to encrypted apps, and use of cryptocurrency or gift cards, and advises the public not to send funds or personal data and for victims to contact their bank and the Tonga Police Cybercrime Unit.