Police warn of 'love bombing' tactics as romance fraud increases

Merseyside Police is supporting Romance Fraud Awareness Week during the week commencing Monday 16 June, an initiative led by the City of London Police, the National Lead Force for fraud.

Recent data from the National Fraud Intelligence Bureau (NFIB) shows a concerning 9% rise in romance fraud reports over the past year, with 9,449 cases reported during the 2024/25 financial year. Victims lost an average of £11,222 each, highlighting the emotionally devastating and financially destructive nature of these crimes. In Merseyside, there were 150 reports of romance fraud in the same period, with victims losing a total of £2.4 million.

Detective Sergeant John Causton of the Economic Crime Team at Merseyside Police said: "Romance fraud goes beyond financial crime – it represents a profound personal betrayal that can leave deep emotional wounds. For the second year running, male victims have marginally outnumbered females, dispelling outdated assumptions about who falls prey to these scams.

"However, stigma continues to surround romance fraud victims, often fuelled by misconceptions that they lack common sense or good judgement. The reality is that criminals employ sophisticated methods to manipulate feelings and build trust, leaving anyone susceptible.

"We want to emphasise that romance fraud can affect anyone, irrespective of gender or circumstances. If something feels wrong in an online relationship, step back, check identities, and ask for guidance. Coming forward can not only safeguard yourself but also help stop others from becoming victims and assist in bringing offenders to justice."

The national data from the 2024/25 financial year shows whilst more men reported incidents, female victims tended to lose larger sums of money, which can occur if fraudsters exploit emotions over extended timeframes.

The 50-59 age bracket suffered the highest financial losses, totalling £22,108,334. Those in this age range typically possess greater financial means, remain in employment, and may be experiencing personal transitions such as divorce, separation, or bereavement, making them ideal targets for criminals.

A key method employed by fraudsters is 'love bombing', where victims are showered with overwhelming affection, manipulation, and emotional dominance to establish dependence.

Romance fraud extends beyond monetary loss – it involves psychological damage and the breakdown of trust. Merseyside Police encourages the public to question dubious relationships, confirm identities, and safeguard both their hearts and their finances.

The force is urging people to Stop! Think Fraud, take time to consider the situation and investigate before making payments or sharing personal information.

Quick tips to stay safe from romance fraudsters:

• If you have met someone via a dating app, stay within the messaging function of the application. Don’t feel pressured to hand over your mobile number and move the conversation over to SMS or a messaging platform like Whatsapp or Telegram.
• Be suspicious of any requests for money from someone you have never met in person.
• Be cautious about how much personal information you are sharing online and who you are sharing information with.
• Speak to your family or friends to get advice and perspective. Fraudsters will subtly isolate you for their own purposes.
• Profile photos may not be genuine. Performing a reverse image search can find photos that have been taken from somewhere, or someone, else.

The public can visit the Stop! Think Fraud website at gov.uk/StopThinkFraud for more comprehensive guidance and support.

Suspected fraud should be reported to Action Fraud online at actionfraud.police.uk or by calling 0300 123 2040.

Information about those committing fraud can be shared anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or crimestoppers-uk.org.

All victims of crime residing in Merseyside have access to free, confidential advice and support. Victim Care Merseyside consists of a hub of specially trained staff acting as a single point of contact for all victims and survivors. Visit: Request Support: Victim Care Merseyside or Freephone 0808 175 3080