Dr Jessica Barker: Five signs you’re falling for a romance scammer — and how to stay safe

Dr Jessica Barker. PIc Tony Gavin

Jessica Barker

In 2023, €1.9m was reported to Gardaí as being stolen from victims of romance fraud. Unfortunately, this will be the tip of the iceberg. Many victims don’t know they’re being scammed, or feel ashamed and don’t report the crime.

Victims should not feel ashamed. The criminals running these scams know what they are doing. They tend to be experienced fraudsters who share successful tactics with each other and operate as part of organised gangs.