Paulina is a scammer profile posing as a 29-year-old woman based in Lagos, Nigeria. Operating under the username "pshields668," she presents herself as a friendly, down-to-earth woman looking for love and companionship. Her communications are warm and relatable, often appearing casual at first, before gradually shifting into more emotionally charged territory.
Paulina's scam strategy is subtle and patient. She doesn't rush into romantic declarations; instead, she builds a sense of comfort and familiarity. She asks questions about the victim's life, listens attentively, and slowly reveals details about her own-usually portraying herself as someone struggling but hopeful, making her seem vulnerable and real.
After establishing rapport, Paulina introduces a fabricated personal crisis. These scenarios are often believable but urgent-perhaps she's facing eviction, caring for a sick relative, or trying to start a small business but lacks the necessary funds. She never asks outright at first; rather, she implies her distress and waits for the victim to offer help. When they do, it reinforces her control over the dynamic.
Paulina avoids video calls or voice chats, often blaming poor internet connectivity or cultural discomfort. This helps her maintain the illusion without risking exposure. Her language is carefully chosen-she expresses gratitude, affection, and even guilt for "bothering" the victim, which further draws them in emotionally.
As the relationship continues, the financial requests grow in frequency or size. She may claim to need money urgently, and her emotional appeals become more intense, reinforcing the illusion that a real relationship exists.
Victims of Paulina's scam often feel deeply betrayed. She uses emotional connection as a weapon to manipulate and defraud. Her case highlights how online scams rely not only on greed or lust-but on misplaced empathy and trust.