CTSI is urging the public to be on their guard against heart-breaking romance scams this Valentine’s Day as criminals use ever-more sophisticated and cruel ways of manipulating and exploiting people in search of love.
The rapid evolution of AI technology, with convincing chatbots and deepfake images, voice technology and video, means the potential to be ensnared by a scammer has never been greater.
CTSI Lead Officer for Scams, Katherine Hart, said: “With AI chatbots and deepfake technology advancing, the landscape of online fraud is becoming more sophisticated and harder to detect. AI is getting smarter every day, allowing fraudsters to refine their tactics and create even more convincing deceptions.
“Criminals are now able to create convincing fake identities with minimal effort, deceiving victims into believing they are in a genuine relationship. We urge everyone to be extra cautious when engaging in online interactions. If someone you have never met asks for money, take a step back and question everything – because it could be a scam.”
According to Action Fraud, 9,096 romance scams were reported in the UK last year, a 6% increase. Collectively, £99.4m was stolen in 2024, up 13% from the previous year. Additionally, over the past 13 months, there have been 9,758 reports of romance scams, with reported thefts reaching £105.8m. These figures represent just a fraction of the real impact, as many victims remain too ashamed or distressed to come forward.
CTSI Lead Officer for AI, Cenred Elworthy, noted: “It is becoming easier than ever to deceive people into fraudulent romantic relationships. The public should be wary of online relationships which rapidly escalate into requests for money or financial assistance, however compelling the requests may be. There is nothing wrong with stepping back from online interactions and questioning whether what appears to be occurring is genuine. If it is a genuine romantic contact you should expect them to understand any doubts you may have.”
Louise Baxter MBE, Head of the National Trading Standards Scams Team, said: “Romance scams are one of the most heart-breaking forms of fraud because they exploit people’s trust, emotions, and desire for connection.
“These scams don’t just steal money – they shatter confidence, leaving lasting emotional scars. We all need to be vigilant, have open conversations about fraud and scams, take away the shame and deal with victims with kindness and empathy.”
CTSI Chief Executive, John Herriman, added: “CTSI is committed to working with law enforcement and policymakers to ensure consumers are better protected from these evolving threats.”
Playing the long game
A particularly insidious tactic known as ‘romance baiting’ involves criminals meticulously grooming their victims over weeks or even months. By cultivating a deep emotional connection, they gradually build trust before making financial demands. These fraudsters often invent elaborate stories, claiming urgent medical needs, visa issues, or promising lucrative investment opportunities in cryptocurrency, property, art, or pensions.
Victims are manipulated into sending increasing sums of money, with some individuals losing their life savings before realising they have been deceived. The financial and psychological consequences of such scams can be devastating, leaving victims feeling isolated, humiliated, and financially ruined.
Last month it emerged that a woman in France had been tricked into sending £700,000 to fraudsters posing as the actor Brad Pitt, believing that she was in an online relationship with him. In a high-profile example of victim-shaming, the woman was subjected to widespread online mockery as a result.
Pitt commented through a spokesperson: “It’s awful that scammers take advantage of the strong bond between fans and celebrities. This is an important reminder not to respond to unsolicited online messages, especially from actors who are not present on social networks.”
CTSI urges the public to remain vigilant and look out for warning signs when engaging in online relationships. Some key red flags include:
- Requests for money from someone you’ve never met in person.
- Excuses to avoid video calls or in-person meetings.
- Overly dramatic personal stories designed to evoke sympathy or urgency.
- Pressure to invest in financial schemes, cryptocurrency, or business ventures.
- Sudden declarations of love or intense emotional involvement very early on.
If you or someone you know has been targeted, report the incident immediately to Action Fraud or call 0300 123 2040. The public is encouraged to join Friends Against Scams, a National Trading Standards initiative designed to protect and prevent people from becoming scam victims by empowering them to take a stand against scams.
