Dating safely
Most people you meet are exactly who they say. These habits protect you from the few who aren’t.
Report fraud in England, Wales and Northern Ireland
Report Fraud replaced Action Fraud on 4 December 2025. If you think a match is a scammer, report it at reportfraud.police.uk or call 0300 123 2040, and contact your bank straight away if you have sent money.
In Scotland, call Police Scotland on 101
Police Scotland asks people to report romance fraud on 101 and to call their bank on a number they know is correct. Warning signs include strong feelings declared very quickly, stories that do not add up and someone who avoids video calls or meeting.
Source: Police Scotland: Romance fraud
Never send money, whatever the cause
Never send money, cryptocurrency or gift cards to someone you have not met face to face, even if the request sounds urgent or kind. Be wary of excuses for avoiding video calls, and talk to a trusted friend, perhaps from church, if something feels wrong.
Source: Report Fraud: Romance fraud costs UK victims £102 million