In October 2024, Joe Novak received an unexpected message from a stranger on Facebook that would change his life forever. Novak, a 52-year-old former vice president of information technology from Wallington, New Jersey, found himself entrapped in an online scam that led to the loss of $280,000.

Background of the Ordeal

The trouble began just three months after Novak posted about his son’s struggle with celiac disease. This post attracted the attention of a woman named Ailis Danner, who claimed to be a fashion designer in New York City. The two quickly developed a connection via Facebook and later transitioned to WhatsApp, where their correspondence became increasingly intimate.

Building Trust

• Ailis portrayed a glamorous lifestyle, sharing images of luxury cars and lavish vacations.
• She expressed sympathy for Novak’s situation, as he was undergoing a divorce and was in a custody battle for his children.
• By February, they professed their love for one another.

Unfortunately, this relationship was a facade, meticulously crafted to gain Novak’s trust. By April 2025, he began investing heavily in a supposed cryptocurrency opportunity introduced by Ailis. He invested nearly his entire life savings under the belief that it was a legitimate chance for financial growth.

The Deception Unfolds

Initially, to test the investment site, Novak made small deposits, which he could withdraw without difficulty. This led him to become more comfortable, ultimately investing a total of $280,000. However, when he attempted to withdraw funds, he was met with unexpected fees and ultimately discovered he couldn’t access any of his money.

The Dark Reality

• By March, Novak realized he was likely a victim of a scam known as “pig-butchering,” where scammers cultivate relationships to defraud victims.
• Online experts have reported an increasing number of individuals falling for similar traps, losing billions through such fraudulent crypto schemes.

As Novak’s desperation grew, so did his isolation, leaving him feeling overwhelmed and ashamed. Despite being a tech executive with a strong background, he had overlooked critical warning signs throughout his interactions with Ailis.

Seeking Justice

Once Novak recognized the scam, he reported it to the local authorities and filed a claim with the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center. He continues to seek justice while struggling to rebuild his life.

Lessons Learned

• Novak emphasizes the importance of skepticism, especially in online interactions.
• He urges others to be cautious and to trust their instincts.
• Through his experience, he hopes to raise awareness about the risks of online scams.

As he navigates the aftermath of this painful experience, Novak is focused on healing and ensuring a stable future for his children. Although this chapter of his life has been immensely challenging, he is determined to share his story to help others avoid similar fates.