Thousands stolen from romance scam victims as cases double

Romance fraud cases almost doubled during the pandemic with “relationships” prompting victims to make payments worth more than £6,000 for months on end, as psychologists warn of “hero in need of help” stories to part both men and women from their cash. “Therefore, the victims of such fraud are often compassionate and altruistic people – likely to give to charity and willing to help people, but in this case, they are helping the wrong people by accident.” Fraudsters often pose as naval officers, overseas doctors, soldiers or people working on oil rigs to both appear within a respected, recognised role – and to account for their absence. “Victims find it difficult to confide in family and friends and might not try to get money back from their bank,” adds Owen. “Refunds from banks are so crucial – they help remove the stigma by highlighting that this can happen to anyone from any online connection with a stranger, thus allowing victims to feel able to speak out and importantly, helping them to get their financial lives back on track again.” But UK Finance data suggests that only a third of victims ever get their money back, and Which?