POLICE have warned people not to become the next victim of “romance fraud” especially with Valentine’s Day approaching.

Sgt Jon O’Connor was speaking to members of Wellington Town Council on February 2 where he said that there had been several alleged romance frauds in the area and the scam does become more prevalent around Valentine’s Day.

In his monthly report he said that romance fraud occurred with the fraudster “meeting” the victim online and engaging them in conversation until trust was grained an online relationship formed.

“The fraudster will often provide a photograph stolen from another profile and will appear completely genuine, but there will be excuses for not meeting in person or for not engaging in video calls,” he said in his report.

“At the relationship progresses the fraudster will create unfortunate events with a sense of urgency that require the victim to send money to assist.

“The emotional connection makes the manipulation easier and is usually reinforced by a promise from the fraudster of soon being able to relocate to be with the victim.

“The advice is always to be extra cautious when conversing online and never send money - including vouchers and crypto currency - to somebody you have never met.”

Sgt O’Connor told councillors: “Romance fraud has come to the fore and it’s proving very lucrative for the fraudster.

“Victims are becoming besotted with somebody and then giving away their lifesavings.”

He said it was a very devious crime and victims were being “left with nothing.”

He urged everyone to be mindful if anyone they know starts acting differently or says things that do not add up.

“If somebody says something that’s a bit fishy then please point them in the right direction,” he said.

Sgt O’Connor said they might be “blinded” by supposed romance.