Key Facts
• April 2025: A 54-year-old woman in Nakagawa City, Fukuoka, received a message on Instagram from a foreign male account.
• The scammer sent a self-introduction video and proposed an investment scheme, claiming it would improve her quality of life.
• Communication shifted to the “Signal” app, known for its high privacy features.
• Between May and July 2025, the victim transferred ¥15.19 million (approx. $1.02 million) in 12 transactions.
• Additionally, she purchased cryptocurrency worth ¥9.35 million (approx. $630,000) and sent it to the scammer.
• Total loss: ¥24 million (approx. $1.6 million).
• The scam was uncovered when the victim requested to withdraw profits and was told a 10% fee was required.
• Police urge caution with online investment offers and recommend consulting family or friends before transferring money.
Summary
A 54-year-old woman from Nakagawa City, Fukuoka, fell victim to a romance scam orchestrated through Instagram. The scammer, posing as a foreign man, lured her with promises of meeting in Japan and improving her life through investments. Communication moved to the private “Signal” app, where the victim was persuaded to transfer ¥15.19 million and purchase cryptocurrency worth ¥9.35 million, totaling ¥24 million. The fraud was discovered when she attempted to withdraw profits and was asked to pay a 10% fee. Authorities warn against trusting online investment schemes and advise consulting trusted individuals before making financial decisions.
