Online dating fraud has increased by a third in the last year at a cost of millions of pounds to the UK public, new figures show.
The figures from the National Fraud Intelligence Bureau (NFIB) show a 33% increase in online dating fraud cases last year compared with 2013, with the cost up from £24.5 million to £34 million over the same period.
The report shows that 85% of dating scams last year stemmed from online dating websites or forums.
Of the 15% of cases that did not originate on a dating site, 75% of a victim’s first contact with the suspect came through Facebook, where contact is commonly made by the suspect adding the victim as a friend in the expectation that the victim will accept the request.
Just over half of fraud victims (54%) paid by money transfer, while 37% had money taken directly from bank accounts.
More than half (57%) of all reported crimes relating to online dating were by women, with those aged between 45 and 55 the most commonly targeted.
Among men, the 18 to 25 age group is more likely to be a victim of online dating fraud.
More than half of victims (52%) said they felt a severe or significant impact on their health or financial wellbeing as a result of online dating fraud.
Tony Neate, the chief executive of internet awareness group Get Safe Online, said: “If someone you’ve never met declares their undying love for you after two online conversations, then this should raise suspicions.
“Likewise, it’s unlikely that someone would need to borrow money off somebody they have never met, or only just met, and there is no reason for anyone to ask you for money or your financial information, no matter what sob story they give.
“What strikes me is the length of time and effort fraudsters are willing to commit to in order to take people’s money and destroy their lives and confidence.
“One case reported by the NFIB in 2014 showed a victim giving over £45,000 to a fraudster over a period of nine years before they realised it was a scam. For this victim, this would have rightly felt like a long-term and honest relationship.
“Even if you feel you have become closer to someone via email and phone, you should still remember that this person is largely a stranger to you so if you do feel ready to meet them in person, whether it is your first or fifth date, keep on high alert and report anything suspicious.
“With the right precautions in place, we can nip romance fraud in the bud and stop this type of case from repeating itself.”
Detective Superintendent Pete O’Doherty at the City of London Police said: “Dating fraudsters are heartless criminals who mostly operate online to manipulate their victims into believing they’ve established a strong emotional bond.
“Often the fraudster will not ask directly for money, preferring to bide their time and build a bond with their victim before ultimately inventing a reason why they urgently need money transferred into their account.
“We advise that you never send funds to someone you have never met. If you’re in two minds always consult with a trusted friend or family member who will be able to view the situation objectively and provide some sound advice.
“It is also very important that if you think you are being targeted or have been a victim of dating fraud that you report it to Action Fraud. Sharing this information will help us identify and track down the criminals who are callously attempting to capitalise on people who are simply searching for love.”
Source: https://uk.news.yahoo.com/dating-fraud-increases-33-000439617.html#bTaax3o