VSC Podcast Episode 111 - Romance Scams
What do you think of when you hear the word Scam? Did you know according to the FTC, in the last 5 years people have reported losing 1.3 billion dollars to Romance Scams - more than any other type of fraud category? On this week’s podcast Join VSC Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell as she chats with Advocate Rebecca D’Antonio and anonymous Amy Gdala from Securewomen.org about Romance Scams, the effects they can have on victims, and ways we can be incredible supporters.
Rebecca D’Antonio uses she/her pronouns and was the victim of a Romance Scam. Survivor turned Advocate she now shares her story to give a voice for those still voiceless. While building awareness for this unconscionable crime she strives to create change. To break the infrastructure that allows scammers to operate. To update laws for the changing times; and to create resources for victims and survivors to obtain the help they need so they can tell their own story and rebuild their lives.
Amy Gdala goes by she/her/they/them pronouns and is the anonymous-styled alias of a crime fighting force that is a collective, powered by many victim survivors who work together and are out for justice. Fighting crime is dangerous. Through Amy Gdala, Secure Women moves with agility while protecting and empowering brave victim leaders to fight back.
You can listen to this episode on our YouTube Channel: https://youtu.be/cCjJJpsNsgo
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
If you or someone you know needs help please reach out to securewomen.org and/or Scam Haters United.
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Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.