Nearly £1m lost to romance scams in Cambs last year

Police are warning people to be aware and stay vigilant after victims in Cambridgeshire lost nearly £1m to romance scams last year.

The warning comes ahead of Valentine’s Day and then Singles Awareness Day (15 February).

According to police data, there were 111 reports of romance scams across Cambridgeshire in 2022, with losses for victims totalling more than £870,000. However, in reality, the figures are likely to be much higher as many romance scams go unreported due to victims feeling embarrassed or ashamed.

Cybercrime and fraud prevention officer Dave York, said: “Romance fraudsters target victims through online dating sites or social media platforms and form a relationship with them. They gain their trust before asking them for money, usually for very emotive reasons and, on some occasions, they use the victim’s personal information to steal their identity.

“The vast majority of people using dating sites are sincere and honest in the information they provide and in their reasons for joining, however, there are exceptions, and you need to be aware of how to keep yourself and your money safe.

“Romance fraud isn’t just about financial losses, the emotional impact on victims and their families can be huge.

“We also understand that romance scams often go unreported because victims feel embarrassed or foolish. We want people to feel confident to come forward and report these incidents to us so we can help. These fraudsters are extremely sophisticated and well-rehearsed in what they do.”

As part of a campaign to raise awareness of romance fraud and to help people spot the signs, the force has hired an advertising van, which will be parked at various locations throughout the county on 14 and 15 February.

The van will display messaging on what romance fraud is, how to spot the signs and where to seek help.

For more about romance fraud and how to avoid falling victim, visit the dedicated fraud pages on the force website.