Millions lost by victims of online 'romance scams'

• Watch Ashna Hurynag's report below

Victims of “romance fraud” reported losing more than £50 million in total last year, according to Action Fraud.

Romance fraud happens when people are tricked into thinking they have met the perfect partner on a dating website, app or through social media, only to be scammed out of money after criminals have gained their trust.

• In our region: 157 victims lost a total of £2.5 million in 2018, according to Sussex Police

As Valentine’s Day approaches on February 14, Action Fraud said the average loss per victim in 2018 was £11,145 – a 27% increase on the previous year.

In 2018, £50,766,602 was reported as lost to this scam, with 4,555 reports of romance fraud made to Action Fraud.

In a report produced by Action Fraud, 42% of victims said romance fraud had had a significant impact on their health or financial well-being.

• Here are Date Safe’s tips to avoid a romance scam: