Romance Fraud: Recognising the Signs and Protecting Yourself

Romance fraud—also known as a dating scam, is an increasingly common global issue, with scammers preying on people looking for genuine connection. Using fake identities and emotional manipulation, these fraudsters aim to trick individuals into handing over money or personal information. In 2025 alone, victims around the world lost more than $1.3 billion to romance scams.

While that figure is staggering, the good news is that by learning how these scams work and what red flags to look out for, you can reduce your risk and protect both yourself and your loved ones. For more information on how scammers operate online, check out Gone Phishing? 7 Ways Scammers Could Be Targeting Your Devices.

What Is Romance Fraud?

Romance fraud happens when someone uses a fake online profile to start a relationship under false pretences—typically through dating apps, social media, or even online forums. It’s often a well-planned operation, designed to build emotional trust before introducing financial deception.

Scammers usually claim to be based overseas and working in fields like construction, the military, or oil and gas—professions that make it easier to explain why they can’t meet in person.

Common Tactics Used by Scammers

While every scam is slightly different, there are some tell-tale behaviours to be aware of:

Love Bombing: Things move quickly. Within days or weeks, they are declaring their love and talking about a future together, despite never meeting you in person.

Overly Interested in Your Life: They ask plenty of personal questions but keep the spotlight off themselves. This helps them understand your vulnerabilities and how best to exploit them.

Stories That Lead to Money Requests: They might need help with a sudden medical emergency, travel costs, or a short-term investment. It often starts with a small ask, which then escalates.

Excuses to Avoid Meeting Up: You make plans to meet, but something always comes up—usually a work emergency or unexpected expense.

Cancelled Visits and Sudden Crises: They build anticipation for a visit, only to cancel at the last minute with a dramatic reason—and a plea for financial help.

Signs to Watch Out For

Being aware of the early warning signs can make all the difference:

Rushed Romance: If someone’s declaring love or talking about marriage before you’ve even met face to face, it’s worth stepping back. This is not normal behaviour, and it takes time for people to get to know one another.
Magical Connection: The fraudster may tell you that they feel like they have known you forever or that they have never met or been so connected to someone before they met you. Again, realistically, this is a form of flattery designed to get you to let down your guard.
Financial Requests: No matter how compelling their story sounds, asking for money is a red flag. This may be a direct request or a manipulation
Wanting to Move the Chat Elsewhere: If they try to take the conversation off the dating app or social platform too quickly, it could be to avoid detection.
Unavailable in Person: Whether they say they’re working abroad or stationed somewhere remote, a constant inability to meet is a red flag.
Inconsistent Stories or Photos: If something doesn’t quite add up—whether it’s mismatched details or overly polished photos—it’s worth a closer look.

If you’re unsure about someone’s online behaviour, it’s worth reading Tips to Stay Safe Online for more practical guidance.

The Impact on Victims

Romance fraud isn’t just about the financial loss—it can have lasting emotional consequences, too:

Emotional Toll: Realising you’ve been scammed can bring up feelings of shame, guilt, anxiety, or depression.
Financial Damage: Some people lose thousands, even their life savings. On average, individual losses hover around $15,000.
Isolation: Scammers often try to cut victims off from friends and family, making it easier to manipulate them.

A recent article from CurrencyFair also shows that Gen Z and teens are increasingly vulnerable to online scams, especially those tied to romance or emotional connection. This highlights the importance of raising awareness across all age groups.

How to Protect Yourself

A few simple precautions can go a long way in keeping you safe:

Talk to Someone You Trust: If something doesn’t sit right, especially any requests for financial assistance, run it past a friend or family member. An outside perspective can be really helpful.
Check Their Identity: Do a reverse image search on their photos. Look into their claims—if something feels off, trust your gut.
Be Cautious With Money: No matter how strong the connection feels, don’t send money to someone you’ve never met in person.
Report Anything Suspicious: Whether it’s through the dating platform, Action Fraud, or the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Centre (IC3), reporting helps others avoid falling victim.
Stay Informed: Many banks, law enforcement agencies, and government websites offer great resources to help you spot scams early. For more information, visit our support centre.

A Final Thought

Romance fraud is a cruel crime that takes advantage of trust and vulnerability. But by learning how these scams work and taking a few simple precautions, you can protect yourself and others from falling into the same trap.

If you’ve been affected by a romance scam, know this: it’s not your fault. These fraudsters are professional manipulators—skilled at earning trust and exploiting emotions. You’re not alone, and support is available.

Real relationships are built on honesty and mutual respect—not secrecy or financial pressure.

If you think you’ve been affected by romance fraud, please contact us here.