Romance scams are rising in the UK in 2026, so it is important that people understand how to protect themselves. These scams are particularly brutal in that they target people looking for love, which can result in emotional turmoil as well as financial losses. This post will explore the rise of these scams and offer advice on how to protect yourself.
Why Romance Scams are a Growing Problem
Romance scams involve taking advantage of those using dating apps or social media looking for love. They involve fraudsters creating fake profiles, building trust (often over weeks or months without meeting), and then asking for money, often as a way to resolve a “crisis” they are in. Recent reports state that romance scams have led to losses of around £106 million, demonstrating the scale of the issue in 2026.
Common Warning Signs to Spot Early
There are a few common warning signs to watch for when using dating apps. These include users quickly trying to move conversations off the platform to a private message app (like WhatsApp), fast declarations of love, and inconsistent life stories. If the profile is not verified in the app, this could also be a warning sign. If you are unsure, try a reverse image search of one of their pictures to see if it is used elsewhere.
How to Protect Yourself Online
To protect yourself online, it is wise to stay on the dating app before meeting and use the information provided to look them up online. Many people also request a phone or video call, which is smart in terms of personal safety and avoiding
romance scams. You should also avoid sharing any personal details and never send money or gifts to someone you have not met in person.
Users should also practice safe online habits, such as using privacy tools to protect their personal information online – this is particularly important if using public Wi-Fi. Knowing what is a VPN vs proxy is can help you make an informed decision about protecting your data online.
What to Do if You Suspect a Scam
If anything feels off, you should stop contact, save any evidence you have, and report the profile to the platform. If you have sent money, contact your bank to try to cancel the payment and report the fraud to the relevant UK reporting service. Police report that romance scams can also cause significant emotional harm, so many find it helpful to seek support, whether this is professional support, a support group, or simply from friends and family.
Romance scams are on the rise and a growing trend in the cybercrime landscape. These scams cause both emotional harm and financial losses, so those using dating apps and platforms need to be aware of these scams, common warning signs, how they can protect themselves, and steps to take if they suspect a scam.
