Suffolk Police warn people of tell-tale signs of romance fraud this Valentine's Day
A report by Lloyds Bank says romance scams increased by a fifth in 2023, compared to 2022
Love might be in the air across Suffolk today, but people in the county are being warned to be extra vigilant this Valentine's Day .
It's as a report from Lloyds Bank says romance scams increased by a fifth in 2023, compared with 2022 - with victims losing an average of £7000.
DC John Payne is from Suffolk Police.
He tells us fraud accounts for over 40% of all reported crime in Suffolk: "As soon as you think you're being scammed, speak to your bank.
"There are lots of things they can do to help. They can potentially refund any money, and they can help you close the bank account and change everything important...
"You should also contact Action Fraud, who can disseminate the scammers information out to other police forces."
Online dating
If you're dating online, he says safety is key: "If you don't have to give information to people, don't.
"Banks won't ask you for personal information... as soon as anyone asks about money, or asks for money, you should know, almost for definite, that it's a scam."
John told us what to look out for if you're suspicious: "Stories change - people won't stick to them if they're making them up.
"It's a very difficult thing to do, and what I always say to people is: it's not your fault if you've been a victim of a scam."
What to avoid
DC Payne recommends avoiding the following to make sure you are less likely to fall victim to scammers:
- Do not send money
- Don't allow anybody to access your bank account.
- Don't transfer any money on their behalf
- Don't take out a loan for them
- Don't provide any personal documentation, such as drivers licenses or passports
- Don't invest any money on their behalf
- Don't buy gift cards for them