This includes phone number (65%), location (51%), social media profile (35%), email address (27%), or date of birth (23%) with strangers met online before they’ve had a chance to meet in person.
"If you think you have lost money to a romance scammer, contact your bank immediately and report it to Action Fraud or Police Scotland.
"Always verify someone’s identity with a video call or meeting before getting too personal and never send money or gifts to someone you’ve just met online.".
Romance fraud can also take a huge toll on your mental health and you might find it helpful to talk to someone about what you're going through, such as Mind or Victim Support.".
Also monitor your credit report in the months following the fraud to ensure crooks don't make further attempts to steal your cash.
