City of London Police coordinates national response to romance fraud on World Romance Scam Prevention Day

Today, the City of London Police, as the National Lead Force for fraud, joined forces with public and private sector partners in London to mark World Romance Scam Prevention Day.

With speakers from organisations including Bumble Inc, Ofcom, UK Finance, Barclays, and the Metropolitan Police, the event showcased the power of partnership in tackling deception that exploits trust, love, and vulnerability. The day also featured powerful testimony from survivors and campaigners.

Hosted by the DateSafe team, a multi-agency working group led by the City of London Police that brings together law enforcement, tech platforms, financial institutions, regulators, and victim advocates to tackle romance fraud, the engagement day united experts from across sectors to confront one of the UK’s fastest-growing threats.

Romance fraud cost victims over £106 million last year, equivalent to £12,000 every hour or £200 every minute, making it not only financially damaging but emotionally devastating for those affected.

Assistant Commissioner Nik Adams, City of London Police, said:

“Romance fraud is one of the most emotionally devastating crimes we deal with. Today’s event is about more than awareness - it’s about action. By bringing together experts from across sectors, we’re building a united front to protect the public, disrupt criminal networks, and support victims with compassion and clarity.”

The event also premiered new romance fraud campaign videos featuring real victim stories. These videos are available to view on the Metropolitan Police YouTube channel offering a powerful resource for education and prevention.

As the national lead force for fraud, the City of London Police continues to sit at the centre of the UK’s response through driving intelligence sharing, strategic disruption, and public engagement with events like todays at the US embassy.

City of London Police would like to thank all partners, speakers, and guests who attended for their valuable contributions. Your insight, expertise, and lived experience are vital in shaping the national response to romance fraud and protecting victims across the UK.

How to protect yourself from romance fraud

• Never send money: If you’re in a relationship with someone you’ve only met online, any requests for money should ring an alarm bell. However sad or urgent their story is, never send money (that includes vouchers, cryptocurrency or money for investments). Report anyone who asks for money to the dating service immediately.
• Get to know the person, not the profile: Treat people as you would if meeting in person, by asking questions and taking your time. Check the person online using Google image search or TinEye to see if their profile pictures can be found elsewhere online. Be cautious about how much information you share and keep your social media accounts private and secure.
• Talk to friends and family: Sometimes a second opinion can really help if you are uncertain about something, such as being asked for money by someone you’re in an online relationship with. Be wary if you meet someone online who asks you not to tell anyone about them.

The Online Dating & Discovery Association offers further advice on how to ‘Date Safe’.

What to do if you have already been a victim of romance fraud

• If you have made a payment: Inform your bank as soon as possible, they can help you prevent any further losses. Monitor your bank statements regularly for any unusual activity.
• Identity theft: If you have shared personal or financial information, and suspect your identity may have been stolen, you can check your credit file quickly and easily online. You should do this every few months anyway, using a reputable service provider and follow up on any unexpected or suspicious results. You can also sign up for Cifasservices which can help to protect you against fraud.
• You could be targeted again: Fraudsters sometimes re-establish contact with previous victims claiming that they can help them recover lost money. Hang up on any callers that claim they can get your money back for you.

How to report romance fraud

If you think you have been a victim of romance fraud, remember that you are not to blame, do not feel ashamed or embarrassed - you are not alone, help is out there.  Please report it to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or via www.actionfraud.police.uk.

If you are in Scotland, please report to Police Scotland directly by calling 101.

For more information on fraud, how to spot it, and how to protect yourself, visit https://stopthinkfraud.campaign.gov.uk.