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Glossary

Benefactor Scam

A scam in which a wealthy stranger offers to share their fortune with the victim, often framed as an act of romantic generosity or philanthropic connection.

Also known as: wealthy admirer scam, generous stranger scam

Last reviewed: 10 June 2026

The benefactor scam presents a wealthy, generous admirer or philanthropist who has singled out the victim for special financial favour. The offer may come as an inheritance gift, a share of a business windfall, a donation from a dying person of means, or a rich partner who simply wants to give money to someone deserving. The romantic element is often present: the benefactor is attracted to the victim and wants to build a future together.

Once the victim is emotionally invested in the windfall, fees emerge: processing costs, government taxes, legal documentation, transfer charges. Each paid fee unlocks a new obstacle. The promised funds never arrive.

The key hallmark is an unsolicited offer of large sums from a stranger. Legitimate wealth transfers do not require the recipient to pay upfront fees, and no genuine benefactor meets a romantic partner online and immediately offers large sums of money.

Examples

  • An online contact describes selling their business and wanting to share the proceeds with someone genuine; they ask the victim to cover a small bank transfer fee to receive their share.
  • A widower is contacted by a 'dying philanthropist' who says they have chosen the victim to receive their estate after reading their online profile.

Sources