They are kind, attentive and always far away. Then comes an emergency only you can help with.
Love scammers build trust for weeks or months. They often claim to be engineers, doctors, soldiers or business people overseas — and they always have a reason they cannot meet or video call.
What to do
- They avoid live video callsExcuses every time — bad camera, secret job, poor connection.
- Photos look too perfectSearch their photos with a reverse image search; scammers steal pictures of real people.
- The story keeps changingSmall details about work, family and location do not add up.
- A sudden emergency needs moneyCustoms fees, hospital bills, a frozen account, a ticket to come and see you.
- They ask you to keep it secretIsolation keeps you from hearing a second opinion.
- Gifts or parcels need ‘clearance fees’There is no parcel. There is only a fee.
- Stop paying and tell someoneReport the profile and talk to family or friends you trust.
When to call a professional: We can investigate who is really behind a profile — discreetly and lawfully. Social Media Investigation →
Not sure what to do next? Try the free Case Assessment — 3 minutes · private · no sign-up. See what you already have, what is missing, and the lawful next steps. Start the free assessment →
Emergency? Call 999. Scam in progress? Call the National Scam Response Centre at 997. This tip is general information, not legal advice.