Hi Guys,
Some of our users have been impacted by this scam so please be on the lookout.
Romance fraud is a type of online scam where criminals use fake identities to gain the trust of their victims and form romantic relationships. Once the victim is emotionally invested, the fraudster will request money or personal information, often under the guise of an emergency or unexpected expense. Unfortunately, romance fraud is on the rise, and a recent report from TSB Bank in the UK reveals just how prevalent and devastating this type of fraud can be.
According to the report, there were nearly 4,000 reports of romance fraud in the UK alone in 2020, with victims losing a total of £68 million. The report also found that the average loss per victim was £16,000, and women over the age of 50 were particularly vulnerable to these scams.
To protect yourself from romance fraud, it’s essential to be cautious and vigilant when forming relationships online. Here are some tips to help you stay safe:
- Take your time: Scammers often try to rush their victims into making decisions, so take the time to get to know someone before sharing personal information or sending money.
- Be wary of red flags: Watch out for warning signs such as requests for money, sob stories, or inconsistencies in their story.
- Conduct background checks: Do your own research on the person you’re speaking with, including searching their name and profile information online.
- Keep your personal information private: Be cautious about sharing sensitive information such as your full name, address, or financial information with someone you’ve just met online.
- Use reputable dating sites: Stick to reputable dating sites with a strong reputation for security and safety measures.
- Trust your instincts: If something feels off or too good to be true, it probably is. Trust your gut and don’t be afraid to walk away from a potential scam.
By staying alert and following these tips, you can protect yourself from falling victim to romance fraud. If you suspect that you’ve been targeted by a scammer, it’s essential to report it to the authorities and your bank immediately. Remember, it’s better to be safe than sorry when it comes to online relationships and protecting your personal information.
Please share this article with anyone who might be vulnerable to this type of scam.
All the best,
Max Roberts,
Incognito Privacy Care Team