Valentine’s scam wants to steal more than your heart

ANYONE looking for love online ahead of Valentine’s Day on Sunday risks more than a broken heart amid growing “romance fraud”.

Criminals build online relationships with victims only to con them out of money, with the average loss £7,850, according to UK Finance.

Fraudsters go to great lengths to gain their victim’s trust, and convince them they are in a genuine relationship.

When their target is hooked, they make highly emotional requests, such as claiming they need money for emergency medical treatment, or to cover transport costs so they can meet up.

Romance fraud has grown in the pandemic, as more people turn to online dating for love and companionship amid social distancing restrictions.

While dating apps can be a lifeline for those living alone, they give criminals an opening to coerce people into parting with their money.

Katy Worobec, managing director of economic crime at UK Finance, said criminals are exploiting people who think they have met their perfect partner during lockdown: “Romance scams leave victims out of love and out of pocket.”

She said look for odd behaviour from friends and family as risks grow nearer Valentine’s Day. Warning signs include being secretive about a relationship or providing excuses for why their online partner has not video called or met them in person.

Another sign is expressing very strong emotions and commitment to someone they have only just met.

Victims may send money to someone they have not met face-toface, and even take out loans or make pension withdrawals.