Kent Police is urging the public to stay vigilant after revealing that romance fraud cost local victims over £3 million in the past year — including a Swale woman who lost nearly £100,000 and her home.

The force received 240 reports of romance scams in the 2024/25 financial year, with victims conned out of an average of £13,000 each.

Cruel Scam Leaves Woman Homeless

One of the most devastating cases involved a Swale resident who was targeted through social media in 2022 by a scammer claiming to be an American serviceman. The fraudster gained her trust over several months during a period of grief, ultimately convincing her they were in a romantic relationship.

Over time, she was persuaded to send money via gift cards to cover alleged food and medical bills. The financial pressure escalated to the point where she lost her house and fell into serious debt.

When she tried to pull away, other scammers began blackmailing her with threats to publish personal information, and yet another fraudster posed as an FBI agent offering help — each interaction resulting in further financial loss.

Kent Police only became involved after her bank flagged suspicious activity in May 2025. While no arrests have been made and the stolen money is yet to be recovered, officers managed to retrieve a family heirloom the woman had pawned to fund the fraud.

Police Statement

Detective Chief Inspector Helen Smithers said:

“Romance fraud is a particularly cruel offence. Victims are emotionally manipulated into believing they’ve found love, when in reality they’re being exploited for money.

“Never send money to someone you haven’t met in person or don’t fully trust. If you have doubts, speak to a friend or relative — if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.”

How to Spot and Prevent Romance Fraud

• Be wary of anyone requesting money — even in small amounts or via gift cards.

• Never share bank account access, ID documents, or personal information.

• Avoid transferring money or taking out loans for people you’ve never met.

• Watch out for profile photos that seem too perfect — use reverse image search tools.

• Fraudsters often try to isolate victims emotionally — talk to friends or family about new relationships.

• Don’t agree to receive or send parcels on someone else’s behalf.

National Campaign Underway

Kent Police is supporting a nationwide campaign this week to raise awareness of romance fraud. Authorities hope the campaign will empower people to spot the red flags and protect vulnerable individuals from becoming victims.

Anyone who suspects they or someone they know is being targeted can report it to police via Action Fraud or by calling 101.