Giving Victims a Voice: The Cyber Helpline Supports Advocating Against Romance Scammers (AARS)
The Cyber Helpline is proud to support the “MY VOICE” campaign initiated by Advocating Against Romance Scammers (AARS), aimed at empowering victims of online romance scams to share their experiences and raise awareness about the prevalence and impact of such fraudulent activities.
The "MY VOICE" campaign, designed by AARS, provides victims of online romance scams with a platform to be heard and "seen", overcoming the barriers of shame and embarrassment often associated with falling victim to such scams. Through the simple act of filling out a "MY VOICE" card, individuals can now contribute to shedding light on the devastating effects of romance scams without divulging personal information.
Upon receiving submissions, AARS will ensure that the "MY VOICE" cards are forwarded to the appropriate authorities, including state lawmakers in the United States and ambassadors for online safety in other countries. The information provided will be documented and utilised to educate policymakers and raise awareness about the detrimental effects of romance scams on individuals and communities.
If you, or your loved ones, have been a victim of romance fraud, identity theft or catfishing, please support this campaign. Here are the steps:
Download the ‘MY VOICE” card to your files through this link. It’s a PDF file with the ability to fill in the boxes.
Fill in your details. Your name is optional, but your residency is required.
Send your card as an attachment to: media@thecyberhelpline.com. In the subject line please add “MY VOICE CARD”
If you also want to include a letter along with your “MY VOICE” card, please feel free to send along- we’d love to hear your story!
“MY VOICE” card
Download the PDF via the link on step 1), open it and fill it in directly online. If you have any issues check on Adobe Acrobat on your PC, Mac or device, and go to Select Tools > Edit PDF > Add Text
You can also use a software such as Docusign, or you can print it, fill it in manually and scan it.
The "MY VOICE" cards represent a tangible voice for those who have been silenced by romance scams. These cards provide lawmakers and law enforcers with concrete evidence, offering a glimpse into the real, human impact of these crimes beyond mere statistics.
When recipients receive these letters and cards, they're not just reading words on a page—they're experiencing the raw emotions and hardships faced by victims firsthand.
Behind the scenes, AARS will diligently document the numbers and information provided by victims. This data is a powerful tool that we use to advocate for change. By presenting lawmakers and law enforcers with clear evidence of the widespread harm caused by romance scams, we're pushing for the implementation of stronger safety measures and greater support for victims.
Together, let us amplify the voices of victims and work towards creating a safer online environment for all. Download your "MY VOICE" card today and join us in this important initiative!
Useful guides from The Cyber Helpline for dealing with cybercrime: