Online Scams in Marrakech

Online Romance and Pre-Arrival Scam

Scammers create fake profiles on dating apps and social media, targeting tourists before and during their Morocco trip. They develop relationships over weeks, then fabricate emergencies requiring money transfers via Western Union or cryptocurrency. A related variant operates in person: local men cultivate relationships with female tourists, make marriage proposals, then request visa sponsorship fees or emergency funds. Victims have reported losses of $3,000–$10,000. UK government advisories specifically warn British nationals about marriage fraud and attempted extortion in Morocco.