In the News
House approves Valadao’s Romance Scam Prevention Act
Washington,
June 25, 2025
The U.S. House of Representatives on Monday unanimously passed a bipartisan bill sponsored by U.S. Rep. David Valadao (R-CA) that aims to help reduce online crime and keep people safe from online scammers. “Millions of Americans use online dating platforms to connect with romantic partners, but unfortunately, they’ve also become a way for scammers to target and exploit unsuspecting victims,” Rep. Valadao said. “As criminals become more sophisticated, it’s important we have safeguards in place to protect users.” The Romance Scam Prevention Act, H.R. 2481, which the congressman introduced on March 31 alongside lead original cosponsor U.S. Rep. Brittany Pettersen (D-CO), would require dating apps and services to issue fraud ban notifications to users who have interacted with a person removed from the app for fraudulent activity, according to a bill summary provided by the lawmakers. “Online dating services are being used as a platform for bad actors to target and exploit individuals, yet protections continue to lag behind,” said Rep. Pettersen. “Notifying users if they have been in contact with a potential scammer is a basic security feature that every online dating service should provide.” H.R. 2481 on Tuesday advanced to the U.S. Senate, which is considering the companion bill, the same-named S. 841, introduced on March 4 by U.S. Sens. Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) and John Hickenlooper (D-CO). “The Romance Scam Prevention Act is a bipartisan effort to enhance online safety and combat financial fraud,” Rep. Valadao said. “I look forward to working with my Senate colleagues to get this bill across the finish line.” |