Don’t fall for Romance Fraud

Action Fraud are warning people to stay alert and be aware of romance fraud.

What is romance fraud?

A romance scam can involve people being duped into sending money to criminals who have gained their trust and will have you believe that you are in a committed relationship with them. They will use manipulative language and tricks to persuade you to hand over your savings. They will make up such convincing stories to gain your trust and ask you to send money over to them and tell you they are in danger or need it for medical expenses and flights to come and see you.

These criminals are experts at impersonating people. They spend hours building up a relationship and researching you for their scams.

Signs that you or a loved one are involved in a romance scam:

• They may be very secretive about a new relationship and have a many reasons as to why their new online partner is not able to meet up in person or video chat. They may become angry and distance themselves from any conversations around the situation
• They may come across as being strongly committed to someone they have only just met
• They are planning to, or already have, sent money to someone who they have not met in person. They may even take out loans or withdraw from their savings in order to send it to the scammer

It is important to remember that no matter how much you think you may know someone its important that you do not send any money over to them, never transfer money on their behalf, do not take out a loan on the promise that they will pay you back when you meet and never send copies of your personal details such as passport, driving license or birth certificate.

If you think you may be a victim of a romance fraud or know someone who is – do not feel embarrassed – these fraudsters are highly skilled in obtaining information and gaining your trust.

You must contact your bank immediately and report it to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or you can report online https://www.actionfraud.police.uk/