THE Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) for Avon and Somerset Police is encouraging people to know the signs of romance fraud to stay safe online this Valentine's Day.

Avon and Somerset Police says fraudsters are 'capitalising on people’s loneliness and increasing use of social media and dating apps' during the coronavirus pandemic.

According to Action Fraud, in 2020 there were 218 reports of romance fraud in Avon and Somerset compared to 151 in 2019, an increase of 44 per cent. It is believed the true figure of people being tricked into giving over money to fraudsters is likely to be much higher.

Romance fraud is when offenders feign romantic feelings for someone online in order to gain their affection and then use that goodwill to commit fraud.

Fraudsters effectively groom their victim using various psychological techniques to build trust while, in reality, the offender is not who they say they are and will be talking to a number of other people in the same way.

Once fraudsters have created trust between themselves and the victim, they gradually start to introduce money into the conversation and begin to make requests. Such requests usually start of small and might be for things such as phone credit.

These requests will escalate and fraudsters will start asking for money for things such as flight tickets, to help a sick relative or to assist with complications at customs.

Most victims do not realise they have been scammed and some do not want to believe that the person they have invested so much time in could have been using them.

PCC Sue Mountstevens said: “Romance fraud is a heart-breaking crime as many victims have invested so much time into someone they think has feelings for them when, in reality, it has all been a wicked lie to commit fraud.

"I know victims often feel ashamed when they realise they have been scammed but please know support and help is available from both the police and Action Fraud. No one will judge you.

“The pandemic has created a wave of loneliness and more people are using the internet or apps to meet people.

"Fraudsters are aware of this increased trend and know how to exploit vulnerabilities. Now more than ever, we must remain vigilant when using social media apps, dating apps or being online in general.

"I urge everyone to know how to spot the signs of online fraud and romantic fraud to ensure you or a loved one does not become a victim of this deceitful crime.”

Avon and Somerset Police said it is important for people to remember that no relationship, especially with someone you have never met in person, should require you to send money.

Requests for money for any reason should be a red flag.

Fraud Protect Officer Amy Horrobin said: “We’d urge anyone who has been a victim of romance fraud to report it to Action Fraud. Reporting such scams helps to build up vital intelligence and could potentially prevent anyone else falling victim and handing over money.

“We believe some people are reluctant to come forward as they feel embarrassed and sometimes hide their losses from friends or family. However, they should feel no shame because these criminals are predatory and groom their victims. These fraudsters are calculated and pull at the heart-strings of people they believe are kind-hearted and are likely to want to help someone who they believe is in need.

“Often romance fraud cases tend to involve people who are asked to provide money on an urgent basis – such as for medical bills or another emotional reasons. Such requests should be treated with caution and, if the person many the request is genuine, they will understand you being circumspect and careful. If in doubt, we’d recommend contacting Action Fraud or the police for advice. Alternatively, try speaking with a friend or family member who can provide another perspective.”

Avon and Somerset Police has put together the following advice to help protect people from financial fraud:

  • Avoid giving away too many personal details when speaking online to someone you’ve never met and never disclose security details such as PINs or full passwords
  • Stay on the site’s messaging service until you meet in person and know they are genuine. Criminals want to quickly switch to other platforms that are less regulated. If something doesn’t feel right when talking to them on the dating or social media app, report them. This will also help protect others.
  • It is important that no matter how long you’ve been speaking to someone online and how much you trust them, if you haven’t met them in person you should not:

- Send them any money

- Allow them to access your bank account,

- Transfer money on their behalf

-Take a loan out for them

-Provide copies of your personal documents such as passports or driving licence

- Invest your own money on their behalf or their advice

- Purchase and send the codes on gift cards from Amazon or iTunes

- Agree to receive and/or send parcels on their behalf

  • Remember that the police and Action Fraud are there to help and support
  • Keep asking questions to check if the person’s story holds up, especially if they start asking for money and keep family and friends in the loop – if someone is asking for money, tell a loved one and ask for their opinion