Empowering Change Through Tech Awareness

​​​

Romance Fraud: Steps You Can Take To Avoid Being Scammed.

​

Digital dating has become one of the most popular ways to meet people, with Ofcom reporting over 5 million UK adults now using online platforms. Many have moved away from traditional ways of meeting—like down the local pub—in favour of the convenience of connecting from their sofa with a simple swipe left or right.

​

However, there’s an important caveat: you can’t always trust what you see online. Fake profiles, manipulated images, and even AI-generated videos mean you may not truly know whom you’re talking to. As a result, romance fraud and other forms of cybercrime are on the rise.

​

With limited regulation and evolving technology, online daters can be vulnerable. In the UK, thousands of romance fraud cases are reported each year. Understanding the risks—and how to protect yourself—can significantly reduce your chances of being targeted.

​

Here are some practical steps to stay safe:

​

1. Avoid discussing your finances
Fraudsters will often steer conversations toward money, asking about your job, savings, or financial struggles. This helps them decide how to target you. Keeping financial matters private.

​

2. Never send money or financial details to someone you haven’t met in person
This is one of the most common tactics in romance fraud. Requests may sound urgent or emotional—such as medical emergencies, travel costs, or business problems. No matter how convincing the story is, sending money or sharing bank details puts you at serious risk.

​

3. Don’t overshare personal information too quickly
Scammers often build trust by asking seemingly harmless questions early on. Take your time and keep personal details private until you’re sure who you’re speaking to.

​

4. Tell someone you trust that you’re speaking to someone online

Sharing your situation with a friend or family member gives you an outside perspective—they may notice warning signs you’ve missed or question things that don’t add up.

​

5. Keep a record of your interactions
Save messages, emails, usernames, and photos. If something goes wrong, this information can be useful when reporting the individual to platforms or authorities, and it helps you track inconsistencies in their story.   Published 9th February 2026​​​​​​​​​​