People falling victim to romance fraud in Cumbria have lost a total of over £630,000 to scammers.
Cumbria police said it had received 74 reports of the fraud so far in the last 12 months – up from 17 from October 2023 to October 2024.
Losses have also increased dramatically – between October 2023 and October 2024 around £156,000 was reported as being taken by fraudsters.
Police are urging people to speak up if they have been a victim of romance fraud – and are reminding people it is not their fault if they have been targeted.
Scammers prey on people’s emotions to swindle them out of money.
Romance fraud happens when a person thinks they have met a new partner or romantic interest through a dating website, app or through social media.
But a fraudster is using a fake profile to form a relationship with them.
They will gain the person’s trust and ask for money or enough personal information to steal the victim’s identity.
Cases in Cumbria have involved victims meeting fraudsters on dating websites.
They have then started sending money to what they think is their boyfriend or girlfriend.
The age groups most likely to fall victim were those between 50 and 79.
A recent case in Cumbria involved a man who had recently lost his wife. He was feeling lonely struck up a relationship online with a number of women.
He was defrauded by three of them, sending £30,000 in total.
One of the fraudsters said she needed money to release an inheritance.
DC Claire Keyes works in the force’s economic crime unit.
She said: “Being targeted with romance fraud can evoke many different feelings and emotions.
“Many people will feel embarrassed or ashamed and blame themselves. But it is really important to remember that romance fraud is never the fault of the victim.
“How the fraud works is: a story will be produced – perhaps the person they are communicating with needs money for a flight to come over or they are facing some kind of medical emergency.
“Sometimes they may need some money to unlock further funding elsewhere.
“Fraudsters are very good at what they do. They are experts in creating a narrative aimed at the person they are exploiting.
“Many victims are convinced that the person is real and is genuinely in a relationship with them.
“We believe a lot of these crimes go unreported as a result.
“Even those who do eventually accept it is a fraud are often too embarrassed to tell anyone.
“When something like this happens, it may feel like you are the only person this has ever happened to.
“But you are not alone. Anybody can fall victim to fraud.
“So we’d urge people to make themselves aware of the advice police and partners provide and to always take a pause and think about their actions.
“If in doubt, ask a trusted friend or relative. And always report if you have been exploited in this way.”
Cumbria’s Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner, David Allen, said: “These fraudsters are cowards that prey on the good nature and kindness of others.
“This is why it is so important that we try to protect ourselves and report any fraud if you have been targeted.
“No one is immune from fraud. It can happen to anyone and it absolutely nothing to be embarrassed by. By reporting it, we may be able to stop them before someone else becomes their victim.”
Action Fraud’s advice for protecting yourself against romance fraud
- Never send money: If you’re in a relationship with someone you’ve only met online, any requests for money should ring an alarm bell. However sad or urgent their story is, never send money – that includes vouchers, cryptocurrency or money for investments. Report anyone who asks for money to the dating service immediately.
- Get to know the person, not the profile: Treat people as you would if meeting in person, by asking questions and taking your time. Check the person online using Google image search to see if their profile pictures can be found elsewhere online. Be cautious about how much information you share. Keep your social media accounts private and secure.
- Talk to friends and family: Sometimes a second opinion can really help if you are uncertain about something, such as being asked for money by someone you’re in an online relationship with. Be wary if you meet someone online who asks you not to tell anyone about them.
What to do if you have been the victim of fraud
The first thing you should do if you’ve been a victim of fraud is to contact Action Fraud. Call 0300 123 2040.
If debit or credit cards, online banking or cheques are involved, your first step should be to contact your bank or credit card company.
