Police are urging people who use online dating sites to follow certain steps to keep themselves and their loved ones safe from fraudsters.
They're asking "do you really know who you're talking to?" and advising people to consider the following as they embark on an online quest for a relationship:
- Don't rush into an online relationship - get to know the person, not the profile, ensuring you ask plenty of questions. The vast majority of romance fraud is initiated online.
- Analyse their profile - protect yourself by confirming their identity.
- Check the person is genuine by putting the following into your search engine; their name, profile pictures and any repeatedly used phrases, along with the term 'dating scam? Be mindful that a fraudster could be hiding behind an alias and have changed details connecting them to previous fraudulent activity
- Talk to your friends and family - be wary of anyone who tells you not to tell others about them. Romance fraud involves grooming over a long period of time. Alienating a victim from their friends and family can make up part of that process
- Evade scams - never send money or share your bank details with someone you've only met online. It doesn't matter how long you've been speaking to them or what story they give behind needing the sum
- Stay on the dating site messenger service - fraudsters will often encourage their victims to use different communication channels that are often undetectable. Be confident that you know who you're speaking to, and be wary if they fail to meet you in person
If you, or someone you know, are concerned you may be subject to romance fraud report online at www.sussex.police.uk or call 101. Always ring 999 in an emergency
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