Investment and romance scams are rising fast and can result in life-changing losses — often because victims are gradually won over before any money is mentioned.
.png)
What is happening?
In an investment scam, a fraudster promises high returns with little risk — often through social media adverts, cold calls, or messages from someone you have connected with online. In a romance scam, a criminal builds a relationship over weeks or months before asking for money, often claiming a personal crisis.
Why does this scam work?
Both types of scam work because they exploit trust built over time. By the point money is mentioned, the victim genuinely believes the other person or opportunity is real. The emotional investment makes it very hard to step back and question what is happening.
Warning signs:
Investment opportunities promising returns that sound too good to be true. An online friend or romantic contact who has never met you in person and eventually asks for money. Pressure to invest quickly before an opportunity closes.
What to do:
Before investing any money, check whether the firm is authorised by searching the Financial Conduct Authority register at fca.org.uk. If someone you have met online begins asking for money, speak to a trusted friend or family member before doing anything. You do not need to feel embarrassed — these scams are carefully designed to be convincing.
