Reports of romance fraud have increased by 27% over the past year as victims have lost a total of £50 million and the average victim losing £11,000.
Romance fraud victims are conned out of money by their love interests, who ask for money or enough personal information to steal the victim’s identity and with it their money.
However, monetary damages are not the only issue for victims, as 42% reported that falling victim has had a significant impact on their health or financial wellbeing, especially when they learn they are not in a legitimate relationship.