News roundup for Feb. 13

Medina Symphony Orchestra rehearsals to begin soon The Medina Symphony Orchestra will have its first rehearsal at 6:30 p.m. Monday in room 101 of the Brunswick Recreation Center. The symphony is looking for a few more musicians who play violin, viola, cello, bass, French horn, flute, oboe and trumpet. Instrumentalists who are of high school age and above are welcome. Contact conductor Shirley Ann Walker at Sa_walker426@yahoo.com. FBI Cleveland warns about romance scams, confidence fraud With Valentine's Day a few days away, FBI Cleveland shared information about romance scams, encouraging people to remain aware when engaging in online relationships and warning them about the dangers when striking up a relationship with someone they have not met in real life. The FBI states that romance scams are rising and typically begin when a criminal creates a fake profile on a dating site or social media platform. The scammer tricks victims into believing they're in a loving and trusting relationship with that online persona. The scammer then leverages that relationship and concocts stories of financial hardships, persuading victims to send money, gift cards, cryptocurrency, or other items of value. Confidence scams also include leading someone to believe they are talking with a friend or family member and then are tricked into sending money, personal and financial information, or items of value to the perpetrator or to launder money or items to assist the perpetrator. "While the ability to connect online has never been easier, so too is the risk of becoming victim to a scammer," FBI Cleveland Special Agent in Charge Greg Nelsen said. "Sadly, if you are on a device, you are vulnerable, no matter your age, gender, or technological savviness. The FBI wants to remind the public about these schemes and educate people about the stories these fraudsters will use." According to the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center data, Ohioans lost more than $15.3 million in 2023 to confidence fraud and romance scams. If someone suspects their online relationship is a scam, call (800) CALL-FBI to file a report or visit ic3.gov to submit a tip. No amount is too large or small to report to the FBI whether it's a request to wire money, send gift cards, or transfer other items of value. Find more information about romance scams at FBI.gov/romancescams.