Scamming Several Men in Romantic Ploys, Female Abused Online Gambling Funds
In the digital age, where social isolation has become a norm due to the COVID-19 pandemic, online romance scams have seen a significant surge in Japan. The increased reliance on social media and digital communication during prolonged periods of social distancing has provided fertile ground for scammers to exploit individuals seeking connection online [4].
The most susceptible targets are often the elderly, who may struggle with navigating digital spaces safely and are more trusting of online relationships. Newcomers to the digital world or social media are also at risk, as they may not recognize typical scam patterns. Additionally, people emotionally isolated due to social distancing measures and seeking companionship are exploited through romance scams promising love or emotional support but aiming for financial exploitation [4].
The case of Shizuku Ida, a 27-year-old woman arrested in 2023, serves as a stark reminder of the rise in such fraudulent activities. Ida swindled around 100 men, amassing approximately 100 million yen ($656,000) [1]. She claimed to work as a hostess and received money from her locker at the establishment, which caters to young men who pay for conversation with women [6].
Ida targeted her victims through dating apps and social media, fabricating multiple hardships, including having money stolen, needing money for childcare, and even stating that she wanted to die, to gain sympathy from her victims [7]. Her victims range from middle-aged men who are financially comfortable to those less experienced in the digital world [5].
The number of online romance scam reports in Japan has increased dramatically since 2018, with 1,017 reports in 2023 compared to just 45 in 2018 [3]. Kimiaki Nishida, a cybersecurity expert, notes that it is easier to tell lies online than when meeting in person [8].
Ida confessed to the scam shortly after her arrest, admitting to lying to build trust and using the money for gambling and other expenses [2]. She left her child with her parents before severing ties with her family and mentioned having debts left behind by her parents [6].
The rise in online romance scams in Japan aligns with global trends of increasing sextortion and scam risks. Fraud—including scams on social media and mobile platforms—has sharply increased in Asia, with fraudsters employing social engineering and financial deception tactics intensified by pandemic conditions [4]. This aligns with global trends of increasing sextortion and scam risks as reported in 2025 [2].
In conclusion, the COVID-19 pandemic has provided a breeding ground for online romance scams in Japan, particularly targeting the elderly and digitally inexperienced individuals. It is crucial for individuals to remain vigilant and aware of the signs of online scams to protect themselves and their finances.
People turn to online platforms for entertainment during the pandemic, with an increase in casino-and-gambling activities such as casino-games like slots. However, this rise in digital activities also extends to criminal activities. For instance, a recorded case involved Shizuku Ida, who swindled money from her victims for gambling purposes, which is a form of general-news-related crime-and-justice issue.
