The trauma, emotional and financial devastation, shame, and victim-blaming are all explored in this forthright conversation with relationship scam survivor, Jan Marshall.

Understanding that scammers are trained professionals, not just opportunistic players is vital to protect the vulnerable and idealistic in a world where everything and everyone is open for exploiting.

How can an intelligent person be so thoroughly scammed?

Cyber Security Cafe host, Beverley Roche chats to Jan Marshall about her story and the devastating trauma of a relationship scam.

Emotions still resonate powerfully as Jan shares her very personal experience of being a victim of a relationship scam and details of her new emotional support service, Life After Scams for victims of similar cyber crimes.

If you think it is too good to be true, it probably is. If you are being asked for money and personal details shortly after meeting someone online, ask yourself #isthisforreal?

If you think you are experiencing a relationship scam, here are some helpful sites to assist you:

Jan Marshall – www.lifeafterscams.org

Report to Scamwatch – www.scamwatch.gov.au

IDCare – www.IDCare.org