Barclays warns of rise in 'devastating' scam costing victims up to £19,000

has issued a warning about the "devastating" rise in romance as online dating hits its 30-year anniversary. Data shows a 20% increase in these scams in the first three months of 2025, with most originating on social media sites and online dating platforms.

Kirsty Adams, fraud and scams expert at Barclays, said: "Social media platforms and dating apps are by far the biggest sources of romance scams, which is no surprise considering how the dating landscape has changed over the decades." The bank's data shows the average amount lost to a romance scam in 2024 was £8,000, up from just under £5,800 in 2023. Those aged 61 or over are most susceptible, with the average claim totalling £19,000.

Romance scams see fraudsters pretend to be interested in a romantic relationship to gain their victim's trust before manipulating them into sending money or personal information. One in 10 (12%) UK adults have been targeted by a romance scam or know someone who has been targeted.

Across the scam claims so far this year, men make up a more significant share of total reports in terms of volume and value.

Of those targeted, two-fifths (39%) said they had been communicating with the scammer for less than a month when the scammer asked for money.

A third (32%) said the scammer created a false sense of urgency and put them under pressure to act quickly. When asked the reasons scammers gave for needing money, the top responses included fake emergencies, travel costs for things like flights and visas, and medical bills and expenses.

Romance scammers prey on emotions, building trust to deceive victims into sending money. Over a quarter (27%) of victims said they felt lonely when first contacted, while one in five (19%) admitted to ignoring red flags due to excitement about finding love.

Ms Adams said: "Romance scammers have taken advantage of the shift online, using these channels to target potential victims. Falling for a romance scam can be both financially and emotionally devastating."

Barclays is supporting public calls for stronger consumer protection against fraud and scams, as 76% of people believe companies should do more to prevent romance scams on their platforms.

Ms Adams added: "We need tech companies to step up their support and take greater action to prevent scammers from operating on their platforms."