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I wanted to provide you with an update regarding Fraud, which people around your area have highlighted as an issue of concern on the priority survey. Stay alert: romance fraud cost UK victims £102M last year.
Victims of romance fraud lost more than £102 million last year, as criminals continue to exploit online relationships to manipulate people into transferring money.
Analysis shows people aged 55 to 74 experienced the greatest financial losses, accounting for almost half of the total amount stolen. Although men submitted a higher number of reports overall, women experienced higher individual losses, making up just over 40 per cent of the total value reported.
Romance fraud remains closely linked to online platforms, particularly social media and dating sites, where offenders can create convincing false identities. Investigators are also seeing increased use of AI‑generated images and messages to support these profiles. In many cases, it is also linked to fake investment opportunities, including cryptocurrency, increasing the financial risk to victims.
As part of this campaign, we are urging the public to stay cautious when forming relationships online and to recognise the warning signs:
Be cautious of individuals who develop relationships very quickly or express strong feelings early on
Be wary of excuses not to meet in person or to avoid live video calls
Never send money, cryptocurrency or gift cards to someone you have not met face‑to‑face
Be alert to requests linked to investments, medical emergencies or travel costs
Speak to a trusted friend or family member if something feels unusual or pressured
If you think that you have been targeted, please report it to Report Fraud at www.reportfraud.police.uk or by calling 0300 123 2040.
If money has already been transferred, you should contact your bank immediately. In Scotland, victims of fraud and cybercrime should report to Police Scotland on 101.
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 Fraud can affect anyone within the community, so we want to make sure you have the tools and knowledge to protect yourself from it. It comes in many different forms and across varying channels, whether that's through emails, phone calls or in person encounters. Some adults may be even more vulnerable to fraud or financial abuse, but it is something that everyone can be at risk of. If you’re concerned about someone you know, please contact your local social services and ask for Adult Social Care. Please see a few resources below to protect you and others from potential fraudsters: For more information and help and to report fraud, go to Action Fraud, the UK’s national fraud and cybercrime reporting centre. Lastly, if you think you’ve uncovered a scam, been targeted by a scam or fallen victim to fraudsters, please contact 101 or Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or online at Action Fraud. We are working on our brand-new strategy for how we police London and we want your help. Our New Met for London: Phase 2 strategy will guide how we deliver on behalf of Londoners over the next three years. | 
