Is it love? Or is it fraud?

We all know how to protect ourselves against criminals when donating to a charity, buying a holiday or making an investment but are you protecting yourself in your new relationship too?

Criminals are using romance as way to steal large sums of money. They work over an extended period of time, going to great lengths to build trust with you, using emotive language to manipulate and exploit your good nature.

Victims are often targeted online and made to believe that they are in a genuine relationship before their new ‘partner’ requests funds for fraudulent scenarios. It may seem innocent at first, just a small amount to cover a bill or daily living costs but it can quickly build to thousands of pounds for alleged emergency medical care or travelling costs.

There was a 9% increase in romance fraud reports in the past year, with 9,449 reports made in the 2024/25 financial year, according to the National Fraud Intelligence Bureau (NFIB). On average, victims lost £11,222 each.

It is important to look out for your friends and family to prevent them from being persuaded into sending their money to someone who they’ve never met or do not know well.  Report Fraud have outlined some signs to look out for when someone may be involved in a romance scam:

• Being secretive about a new relationship.
• Providing excuses for why they have not met their new partner in person.
• Being hostile or angry, and withdrawing from conversation when you ask questions about their new partner.
• Expressing strong emotions and commitment to someone who they have not known for very long.
• They have sent or are planning to send money to someone they have not met in person.
• They may try to access funds from savings accounts, pensions or take out loans

It may be difficult to differentiate a genuine relationship and a romance fraud scam. You can keep yourself safe by being suspicious of any requests for money from someone you have never met or have connected with online.  Make sure you speak to family and friends and ask for their advice – an outside perspective can provide perspective and clarity. You can find out more about protecting yourself here.

Detective Inspector Emily Bugg said “As we approach the most romantic day of the year, we’re urging people to be aware of romance scams. They are not just financial crimes, they can leave deep emotional scars, having a long-lasting effect on victims and how they approach relationships in the future.

“You may trust the person you have been speaking to and have no reason to think that they would hurt you but if you’ve never met them in person, do not send them any money. Do not allow them access to your bank accounts or provide copies of your personal documents such as passports or driving licenses.  Don’t transfer money on their behalf, take a loan out for them, invest your own money on their behalf or on their advice, purchase or send the codes on gift cards, or agree to receive or send parcels on their behalf. 

“We know you may feel embarrassed to come forward if you have been a victim of romance fraud but coming forward helps us to better understand the methods used by criminals. This allows us to better protect people like you in the future. 

“Protect yourself and talk to family and friends about the relationship you’re in. If you’re ever asked to send money, then it’s time to question their intentions.”

If you or a friend or family member feels they may have been a victim of romance fraud, you are not alone, please do not feel ashamed or embarrassed. You should contact your bank immediately and contact Report Fraud. You can do this by calling 0300 123 2040 or via the Report Fraud website here.

Ofcom have created a game to help people identify the signs of romance fraud. Think you could spot a scam? Give it a go - ofcomseriousgame.novacore.bg

Stop – Taking a moment to stop and think before parting with your money or information could keep you safe.

Challenge – Is this person really who they say they are?  Could their profile picture be fake?  It’s ok to refuse any request for financial or personal details.  Criminals will try to rush, pressure or panic you.

Protect – Contact your bank immediately if you think you’ve fallen for a fraud or scam and report it to Report Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or via reportfraud.police.uk