Internet Romance Scams: Love Is Blind

O'Donnell Law Offices — Wed, 11 Mar 2026 00:05:49 +0000

Fraudsters have existed since time immemorial. One of the more recent time-tested forms of this deceit are romance scams. The scammer tricks the victim into surrendering their affection, and, over prolonged periods of time, uses that endearment to obtain money through false pretenses. These scams have been occurring for centuries, but the advent of the internet, and recently artificial intelligence, have made their stories more compelling. In a recent case, a Michigan man lost $3,000 to someone impersonating Jennifer Aniston.¹

Such events are not one-off occurrences, but part of an underground multi-billion dollar industry. Scam centers from countries such as India and Columbia hire employees, sometimes human trafficking victims, to carry out various aspects of the often prolonged scam. The industry obtained an estimated $1.16 billion within nine months in 2025 alone. Oftentimes these companies will lure victims through text or phone calls to build rapport. Once the relationship is established, they create a persona through actors or generative AI and trick victims so that they fall in love.

The scammer will begin to collect money once the connection is established. Up until recently this was done by having the victim send numerous gift cards, but companies have recently enacted increased protection to combat this method. Fraudsters compensate by having the victim learn how to transfer cryptocurrency, or they may resort to plain-old credit card theft.

How to Protect Yourself from Internet Romance Scams

Some important information to protect yourself. Scammers will eye potential victims of all ages, young or old, so long as there is money to steal. Be wary of unknown online presences which personally contact you and ask for your financial aid. Be wary if the individual says they cannot meet in person. Never send money to people you only communicate to through the internet or messaging services. Lastly, be careful of what information about yourself you post online because scammers use these intimate details to find their targets.

Footnote

¹ Mark Twain, Chapters From my Autobiography – IX, 184 The North American Review 1, 12 (January, 1907).

About the Author

Neil T. O’Donnell is an attorney at O’Donnell Law Offices with decades of experience representing individuals and families throughout Northeastern Pennsylvania. Throughout his career, Neil has built a reputation for strong advocacy and a commitment to helping people navigate complex legal issues.

At O’Donnell Law Offices, he focuses on protecting the rights of individuals who have been harmed by the negligence or misconduct of others. Neil and the team at the firm are dedicated to providing thoughtful legal guidance and pursuing the best possible outcomes for their clients.

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Neil and Cathy O’Donnell: Partners in Law and Life in NEPA

O'Donnell Law Offices — Thu, 11 Sep 2025 00:10:54 +0000

A lifelong partnership built on law, love, and community — Neil and Cathy O’Donnell reflect on their journey from law school classmates to leaders in Northeastern Pennsylvania.

This fall, King’s Magazine highlighted two familiar faces in Northeastern Pennsylvania: Neil and Cathy O’Donnell of O’Donnell Law Offices. Featured in the Dreaming and Envisioning a New Future edition, the couple shared their story of partnership—in life, in law, and in service to their community.

How It All Began

Neil and Cathy first crossed paths at the University of Pittsburgh School of Law. On the very first day of class, Cathy sat in the wrong seat, and Neil happened to sit beside her. That simple twist of fate sparked a friendship that soon grew into something more. By their second year, they were dating, and today they are celebrating 35 years of marriage alongside decades of building their practice together.

Returning to Northeastern Pennsylvania

Although Cathy grew up in Pittsburgh, Neil’s dream was always to return home to Wilkes-Barre to start his own law practice. That vision guided their journey. From the beginning, Neil’s commitment to his hometown and community was clear. Cathy recalls countless times they’ve had the privilege of representing people Neil once went to school with, underscoring the deep roots that ground their work.

Building a Career in Law

Neil majored in history and secondary education at King’s College before pursuing law. Influenced by professors and family members, he saw law as both a challenge and a calling. Cathy’s career path began in Philadelphia, where she worked in a large law firm before joining Neil in private practice. Over the years, their shared dedication to clients has built O’Donnell Law Offices into a respected name across Northeastern Pennsylvania.

When asked what advice they would give to aspiring lawyers, Neil emphasized the importance of grit: “Get the gift of working together, and it’s truly the greatest blessing.” Cathy encouraged openness and resilience: “Be open to suggestions, be open to saying yes. Stay focused and know your strengths, but also know your weaknesses.”

Giving Back to the Community

Service has always been central to their lives. Cathy has served on numerous boards, including Dress for Success Luzerne County, Junior Leadership Northeast, and the North Branch Land Trust. Neil has served on the board of King’s College, the Holy Cross Fathers, and other community organizations. Both believe in lifting others up, especially students and young professionals.

As Cathy put it, “Not everyone has family support or mentors to guide them when they need help; they need a starting point. I am so lucky that I have the blessing to work and volunteer with them.”

Looking Ahead

For Neil and Cathy, the journey has always been about more than practicing law. It’s about living their values—hard work, compassion, service, and community. Together, they continue to embody the spirit of King’s College and Northeastern Pennsylvania: dreaming, envisioning, and building a brighter future for others.

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