Online scammers posing as military personnel or oil rig workers are a threat on the internet, according to a bank warning.
Detective Superintendent Oliver Little, a seasoned law enforcement officer, has issued a warning to the public about the increasing prevalence of romance scams, particularly targeting older adults.
In a recent statement, Detective Superintendent Little advised individuals to remain within the app's messaging platform when communicating with potential romantic interests, be cautious of requests for money, and consult friends or family before making decisions.
According to data released by Lloyds Bank, romance scams have seen a significant surge in the past year, with a 52% rise in cases involving victims over the age of 55. This increase is particularly notable when compared to the previous year.
The average loss across all age groups is £5,219, but for older victims, the average loss is even higher. Those aged 75 to 84 lost an average of £8,068, a 15% rise compared to the previous year.
Older people, specifically those aged 55 to 64 and 65 to 74, make up a significant portion of romance scam victims. The former group accounts for a fifth of all cases, while the latter accounts for 18%.
Scammers often use jobs that provide an excuse for not meeting, such as working on oil rigs or serving in the military. However, it's important to note that, as of 1st April 2024, around 96% of UK regular forces personnel were actually stationed in the UK. Similarly, only 3.4% of oil rig workers were female in 2022.
Scammers may claim to need money for various reasons, such as legal fees, making tax or customs payments, or resolving business problems. They often ask victims to transfer large sums of money, typically after claiming to have a problem such as a visa issue, health issue, or flight ticket problem.
Criminals try to isolate victims, and it's crucial not to give them the opportunity. If you or someone you know has fallen victim to a romance scam, contact the email address provided in this article for assistance.
In these cases, it's essential to remember that if you haven't met the person in person, you don't owe them anything. Be vigilant, stay safe, and protect your personal information.
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