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Fraudsters posing as the 'perfect partner' have scammed islanders out of nearly £400,000 over the past four years.
Cases of romance fraud, which involves emotionally manipulating victims for financial gain, have significantly grown since 2019.
That year, total losses were £23,700, before more than doubling to £57,590 in 2020.
The following year, losses nearly tripled to £163,080.
With £151,000 lost to romance fraud so far in 2022, islanders are being urged to stay on alert for unusual messages.
Jersey Fraud Prevention Forum Chair Chris Beechey advised: “This year we aim to raise awareness on Romance Fraud and want to help Jersey residents recognise the signs to prevent falling victim and financial loss... We ask islanders to think twice when they receive messages online and we continue to encourage Islanders to challenge any communications they suspect may not be legitimate and to report them.”
Forum members will be present at the Royal Jersey Agricultural and Horticultural Society (RJA&HS) on 1 and 2 October to speak to and share resources with members of the public on fraud detection and prevention.
Anyone who wants to learn more about the signs of fraud can visit the Forum's website here.
Those who believe they are the victim of romance fraud who have experienced a loss should contact their banks and the Police on 612612.
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