October is Romance Fraud awareness month. The multi-agency campaign, running throughout October, aims to raise awareness of romance fraud and provide clear and unambiguous protection advice to the public, following a 26 per cent rise in reports to Action Fraud in the past year. Over £66m was lost to scammers from August 2019 – August 2020. Covid-19 lockdown has increased reports where people have been alone and vulnerable. Online dating if you have never met , do not: Send anyone money Transfer money on their behalf Provide copies of your personal documents such as passports or driving licence Allow them access to your bank account Purchase and send codes on gift cards Take a loan out for them Invest your own money on their behalf or on their advice. If you suspect online dating fraud – report it to the social media application and report it to Action Fraud. Their account will be removed and they will be investigated by City of London Police. Many thanks PC 2201 Nick Westmacott

source https://www.yourcommunityalerts.co.uk/da/343276