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Love, Janessa

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Factual: Crime & Justice: True Crime

Behind every catfish, there’s the bait. Who is Janessa Brazil? Who are the scammers?

Behind every catfish, there’s a bait. Stolen images of an adult entertainment star are being used to con victims. Who is Janessa Brazil? Who are the scammers?

Behind every catfish, there’s a bait. Who is Janessa Brazil? Stolen images of an adult entertainment star are being used to con victims out of thousands of dollars, breaking hearts in the process. Journalist Hannah Ajala embarks on a quest to find Janessa, in this seven-part true crime series. And who is responsible for catfishing scams? Produced for the BBC World Service and CBC Podcasts by Antica Productions and Telltale Industries.

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Love, Janessa: 3. Meet the boys

Factual: Crime & Justice

15/02/2023 GMT

3. Meet the boys

BBC World Service - Love, Janessa, 3. Meet the boys

Tracking down scammers – how and why do they do it? One tells Hannah: “I always feel bad”

Tracking down scammers. How and why do they do it? One tells Hannah: “I always feel bad”. Researchers estimate half of all romance scams originate in West Africa.

Tracking down scammers – how and why do they do it? One tells host Hannah Ajala: “I always feel bad”. Researchers estimate half of global romance scams originate in West Africa. In Ghana, there are the Sakawa Boys. The conning process can involve staying up late, chatting on the phone… building trust and deepening the connection - a bit like a real relationship. It takes time to fall “in love”. Please note, this series contains adult themes and strong language.

Produced for the BBC World Service and CBC Podcasts by Antica Productions and Telltale Industries.

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Love, Janessa

3. Meet the boys

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