Romance scammers can build a bond with victims at any time of year — here are the warning signs and how to protect yourself.
More than £106 million was lost to romance fraud last year. Scammers can build emotional trust online quickly — not just around Valentine’s Day — and then exploit that connection for money. Here’s what readers should watch for and the steps to stay safe.
Romance fraud is not confined to one season. Scammers use fake photos, emotional stories and requests to move conversations off reputable platforms. Never send money to someone you haven’t met and verify profiles with a reverse image search.
Quick Safety Tips
• Never send money to someone you haven’t met in person.
• Stay on trusted dating platforms; be wary if asked to move the chat elsewhere.
• Google reverse-image search profile photos — they may be fake.
• If something feels off, ask a friend or family member for a second opinion.
• Beware emotional sob stories and urgent requests for cash.
Romance scammers can start building relationships online any time of year. They often use stolen photos and fake identities to gain trust, then invent emergencies or emotional stories to ask for money. Victims are commonly urged to move conversations off reputable platforms — where there’s less oversight — and into private messaging apps or email. A quick reverse image search of profile pictures can reveal previous uses of the same image and expose fakes. If you suspect something isn’t right, talk to a trusted friend or relative before sending money. For detailed advice and resources on reporting and protecting yourself, visit: cambs police