Romance scams
Lost money to someone you met online?
Romance scammers spend weeks or months building real feelings before asking for money. It's not your fault, and you don't have to deal with it alone.
The basics
What is a romance scam?
A romance scam is when someone builds a relationship with you online, on dating apps, social media, or messaging apps, so that they can ask you for money. The person often isn't who they say they are.
Requests usually start small and grow: a medical emergency, a travel cost, a customs fee, or an “investment” they want to share with you. Many people also lose money to crypto platforms their partner recommended.
It's not your fault. These scams are run by professionals.
Telling someone is the first step. Our support team will listen and explain what can realistically be done.
Contact supportHow it usually happens
The pattern most of these scams follow.
- 01
A connection
Someone friendly and attentive reaches out, often with a story that explains why they can't meet.
- 02
Trust builds
Daily messages, future plans, and strong emotions make the relationship feel real.
- 03
A request
They have an emergency, or an opportunity, and ask you for help with money.
- 04
More requests
New problems keep appearing, each needing another payment, until you question it.
Warning signs
How to spot it.
- !They always have a reason not to video call or meet
- !The relationship moves very fast
- !Stories of emergencies, fees, or money stuck abroad
- !Requests to pay by crypto, gift cards, or transfer to someone else
- !Encouragement to keep the relationship secret from friends or family
- !Introducing you to an investment or trading platform
What to do now
Steps to take straight away.
- 1Stop sending money, even if you're told one more payment will release your funds.
- 2Contact your bank or card provider straight away and tell them you've been scammed.
- 3Keep everything: messages, emails, receipts, wallet addresses, website links, and screenshots.
- 4Report it to the police or your national fraud reporting service and note the reference number.
- 5Change passwords and turn on two-step verification if you shared any login details.
How we can help with your case.
- We listen to what happened and review your payments and records
- We explain your options honestly, including what may not be possible
- If you go ahead, your secure dashboard shows every update on your case
Talk to our support team about what happened.
Your message goes straight to our team with the topic already filled in.
We'll never ask for your passwords or verification codes.
Other types of scam