Roses are red, violets are blue, make sure the scammers aren’t targeting you!

In the run up to Valentine’s Day this year, Age UK West Sussex, Brighton & Hove (WSBH) is warning local older people to be alert to romance fraud and is sharing tips on how to avoid these scams. The charity hopes that by raising awareness, fewer people will suffer at the hands of fraudsters.

Criminals often target lonely older people, sometimes deliberately scouring social media groups for widows/widowers or those who are divorced. They use fake profiles, photos, AI videos and voices to build up a relationship and often gain trust by finding out personal information and creating stories which suggest a lot in common. Once they have created a bond and gained trust (sometimes over a period of months) they start inventing reasons for needing money. This might be to come and visit, to pay for a made-up emergency or for a loan that they desperately need. Sometimes they ask for cryptocurrency or gift cards. They often promise to pay the money back promptly, but never do. Top tips for avoiding being a victim of romance fraud:

• If you’re in a relationship with someone you’ve met online, any requests for money should ring alarm bells. Avoid sending money to someone you’ve never met or have only met a few times, especially if they are declaring strong feelings for you after a short period of time.
  
  
• Research who you’re speaking to. You can upload photos from their profile on search engines like google to see if they appear elsewhere online with a different name.
  
  
• Talk to friends and family about online relationships. Be wary if someone asks you not to tell anyone about them.
  
  
• Be alert to inconsistencies in their stories and always consider the possibility of a scam.
  
  
• If you think you’ve been targeted, please seek help through Action Fraud and your bank, as well as leaning on family and friends for support.

Jo Clarke, Deputy Chief Executive at Age UK WSBH said “We’ve heard heartbreaking stories about older people losing their life savings, having fallen victim to these calculated criminals. Fraudsters often build up relationships over a long period and target kind, compassionate people. AI is making it easier, as they can quickly create videos or voice notes which seem so real. This week we’re trying to raise awareness of this and we’re urging anyone affected to seek help. There’s no judgement and by reporting, you might be able to save someone else from this kind of heartache.”

Any concerns about romance fraud can be reported to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or by visiting www.reportfraud.police.uk, you should also contact your bank immediately. If you have been a victim of romance fraud and want to speak to someone confidentially, Victim Support offer independent, free and confidential advice. Their support line is on 08 08 16 89 111 or visit www.victimsupport.org.uk to complete a contact form or access live chat.