Romance fraud warning as Valentines Day approaches
With Valentine’s Day approaching, lovestruck Scots are being urged to be aware of romance fraudsters.
With many relationships now forming online rather than in-person, it has become easier for people carry out these types of scams.
Numbers of reported Romance fraud cases have been growing in the last few years, with most usually being found on dating sites and social media.
Crimestoppers describe romance fraud as a long-term scam, which takes the perpetrators “weeks or months” to convince people they are “in a loving and caring relationship.”
These impersonators may use a completely false or artificial identity, but some may be impersonating real individuals.
According to Police Scotland, criminals will reportedly spend hours researching potential targets, and will then send messages as part of a “grooming process.”
After gaining trust, the perpetrators will usually ask for sums of money, using a variety of techniques.
These tactics can include bombarding the victim with messages, creating false narratives such as health scares and emergencies.
Another common ploy is to claim that payments have not been received, to try and convince people to send more.
Scammers may become hostile or defensive if their victims attempt to refuse sending money, or may resort to blackmail.
Warning signs
Crimestoppers have issued a list of potential signs to look out for in these cases, including checking the photos used on scammers fake accounts.
Reverse image searches can help identify the true source of stolen photos, with some fraudsters using shots of actors and models to help fool victims.
Other warning signs include limiting their contact with targets to texts or messaging services, and make up excuses to avoid video chats and in-person meetings.
In a number of cases, fraudsters will claim they live abroad or are working overseas to avoid being discovered.
New three step advice from the UK Government for those who believe they may have been the victim of a romance scam is “Stop, Challenge, Protect.”
They recommend that potential victims “Take a moment to stop and think before parting with your money or information.
“It’s OK to reject, refuse or ignore any requests for your financial or personal details. Criminals will try to rush or panic you.
“Contact your bank immediately if you think you’ve fallen for a scam and report it.”
They also advise those who may have been scammed to talk to their family or friends, even if scammers attempt to prevent this.
Keeping records or taking photos of chatlogs can also be useful to any investigations and as evidence of crime.
What should I do?
Crimestoppers are encouraging anyone who may have information on romance fraudsters operating in Scotland to contact them anonymously.
This can be done by phoning the charity’s hotline directly at 0800 555 111, or by filling out an online form.
A new e-booklet on romance fraud, developed in partnership with law enforcement and experts in criminology has also been made available on the Crimestoppers website.
If you or someone you know believes they are being affected by romance fraud, or has been scammed, you can contact Police Scotland on 101.
