Select a region
Islanders in Jersey are being warned of romance-fraud and 'catfishing' scams, after reports of residents having lost more than £350,000 so far this year.
The Jersey Fraud Prevention Forum is tackling the issue in its latest newsletter, which goes out to island homes this week.
The most common route for scammers is via online dating sites.
Catfishing and romance fraud happens when victims are lured into fake relationships by fraudsters spinning them deceptive stories via convincing online profiles.
Detective Chief Inspector Chris Beechy, Chairman of the Jersey Fraud Prevention Forum said: "Scammers seek out and exploit vulnerability and loneliness. They secure their victim’s trust and then they steal their money with devastating financial and emotional consequences for the individuals concerned.
Pictured: romance-fraud and cat fishing have cost islanders more than £350,000 so far this year.
"It is a type of ‘financial grooming’ and we are becoming increasingly concerned by the number of islanders who are falling victim and losing their life savings to this type of crime.
"We are reminding islanders to always make sure they know who they’re communicating with online. Never give out personal information or transfer money, unless you are absolutely sure you know the person and their intentions."
Jersey Police expect the real figure of romance-fraud to be far higher than the figure reported due to the number of incidents that go unreported.
Comments
Comments on this story express the views of the commentator only, not Bailiwick Publishing. We are unable to guarantee the accuracy of any of those comments.