Here's another good reason to be very cautious about any relationship that begins online. One woman was unknowingly lured into an illegal scheme by a man she met.
Her involvement could have led to her arrest. Now, Patti Schmidt is sharing her story hoping to save you from the same kind of scam.
Recommended Videos
"I met Paul M. Smith on Match.com," she said.
Schmidt said she and Smith went on several dates and had many conversations in person and online. Then, he told her he was leaving on a trip and asked for a favor.
Schmidt said Smith told her, "I have some packages coming. I don't trust leaving them at my place. Can I send them to your place?"
She said that was fine. Then Smith asked if she would send the large packages to his business partner with labels he supplied. Schmidt didn't question the request.
But U.S. Postal Inspectors intercepted the packages when they noticed phony postage.
"Our employees knew something was wrong," explained U.S. Postal Inspector Manuella Bakker.
Inside they found laptops, TVs and electronics. So they went to Schmidt.
"She still thought this was a friend of hers, a boyfriend of hers," said Bakker.
Eventually Schmidt realized Smith was no longer a friend but just using her to reship stolen goods.
"We're the one telling her this is not your friend, he is taking advantage of you, he's asking you to do something illegal," said Bakker. "She was very emotional."
Schmidt cooperated with inspectors and explained what had happened. Reshipping con-men usually find victims online through job websites.
Not this time. Schmidt admits the experience has taken an emotional toll.
"Honestly, I second-guess almost everyone," she admitted.
Postal inspectors warn all consumers to be wary about job opportunities and even romantic relationships found on the Internet. In the case of jobs, do your research. Find out more about the company and check with the Better Business Bureau to see if there have been any complaints. In the case of matters of the heart, be cautious of anyone asking you to send or be a part of transactions.