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80-Year-Old Woman Scammed by 'Stranded in Space' Fraudster

9/7/2025

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Summary

Story summary

An 80-year-old woman in Hokkaido, Japan, lost approximately 1 million yen ($6,700) to an online scammer.
She developed a virtual relationship with the scammer on social media in July.
The fraudster claimed to be stranded in space and requested money for oxygen.
After consulting her family, she reported the scam to police.
Authorities warn that romance scams are rising, particularly among vulnerable individuals.

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Story summary

An 80-year-old woman in Hokkaido, Japan, lost approximately 1 million yen ($6,700) to an online scammer.
She developed a virtual relationship with the scammer on social media in July.
The fraudster claimed to be stranded in space and requested money for oxygen.
After consulting her family, she reported the scam to police.
Authorities warn that romance scams are rising, particularly among vulnerable individuals.