Barkley Regional Airport warns public about online romance and travel scams

FOX23 News at 9 p.m

PADUCAH, Ky., (KBSI) — Barkley Regional Airport is warning residents to be aware of online romance and travel scams after learning of multiple cases involving local victims.

Airport officials said several people were persuaded to send money to individuals they met online who claimed they needed financial assistance to purchase airline tickets or cover travel expenses for visits that never occurred.

Officials said the scams often involve criminals spending weeks or months building trust before requesting money, frequently promising to meet the victim in person.

“The financial loss is devastating, but the emotional toll can be even greater,” airport officials said in a statement.

Barkley Regional Airport is encouraging residents to learn the warning signs of online scams and to discuss them with family and friends to help prevent others from becoming victims.

Additional information is available on the airport’s website.