Romance scams in the UK: how to spot them and where to report

By the Postcode Match editors · Checked 8 November 2026

In shortA romance scammer moves fast, wants to leave the dating site and sooner or later asks for money. In England, Wales and Northern Ireland, report it to Report Fraud online at reportfraud.police.uk or on 0300 123 2040. In Scotland, call Police Scotland on 101. In every case, call your bank straight away if you have sent money.

Key facts

England, Wales, Northern Ireland	Report Fraud, 0300 123 2040
Scotland	Police Scotland on 101
Action Fraud	Replaced by Report Fraud on 4 December 2025
Sent money?	Call your bank on a number you know is genuine

Most people you meet online are exactly who they say they are. A small number are not, and the signs tend to be the same wherever you live. Here is what to look for, and the right place to report it in each part of the UK.

Know the warning signs

Police Scotland lists the usual signs: strong feelings declared after a few chats, a push to move to email or messaging apps, stories that do not add up and a camera that never works. A refusal to video call or meet is another one. Stolen photos are common, so a reverse image search is worth doing.

Source: Police Scotland: Romance fraud, checked 9 November 2026

Report Fraud in England, Wales and Northern Ireland

Report Fraud replaced Action Fraud on 4 December 2025 and covers England, Wales and Northern Ireland. You can report online at reportfraud.police.uk or call 0300 123 2040. Old Action Fraud links now redirect to the new service.

Source: Report Fraud: Report Fraud service goes live, checked 9 November 2026

Extra help in Northern Ireland

The PSNI says scammers build a relationship quickly, tell emotional stories and then ask for money. It advises never sending money to someone you have not met, calling your bank at once and reporting to police on 101. ScamwiseNI on nidirect also has advice.

Source: PSNI: Romance fraud warning, February 2026, checked 9 November 2026

Questions

Is Action Fraud still running?

No. Report Fraud replaced it on 4 December 2025 for England, Wales and Northern Ireland, and old Action Fraud links redirect there.

I live in Scotland. Who do I report to?

Call Police Scotland on 101. Report Fraud does not cover Scotland. If you have sent money, call your bank as well.

Should I tell the dating site too?

Yes. Use the report button on the profile. Every report is reviewed by a person, and it helps protect other members.