Question 1

What is the "Romance and Investment Fraud via Social Media" scam in Dakar?

Accepted Answer

Scammers based in Dakar use Facebook and Instagram to cultivate romantic or friendship relationships with foreign contacts, often presenting themselves as successful Senegalese professionals or diaspora members. After weeks or months of communication, they request money for medical emergencies, business investments, or travel visas to visit the victim. Be highly skeptical of unsolicited social media contact from Dakar-based accounts that quickly become personal. Never send money to someone you have not met in person, regardless of the emotional connection established online. Reverse-image search profile photos to check for stolen identities.

Question 2

What is the "Fake Airbnb and Guesthouse Listings in Dakar" scam in Dakar?

Accepted Answer

Fraudulent rental listings advertise apartments in Dakar's Plateau, Mermoz, and Almadies neighborhoods at below-market prices. Bookings are processed via WhatsApp or fake payment pages, with "hosts" citing reasons to pay outside official platforms. On arrival, no property exists or the real owner has no knowledge of the booking. Book only through verified Airbnb or Booking.com listings with substantial review histories. If the host requests off-platform payment, report the listing. Confirm your reservation by calling the property's official number independently before travel.

Online Scams in Dakar

Romance and Investment Fraud via Social Media

Fake Airbnb and Guesthouse Listings in Dakar

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