Police warning over website dating scam

browser copyDetectives are investigating a case where women have been conned out of tens of thousands of pounds by a man they met on a dating website.
This from Hampshire Constabulary, in their own words.

The women are contacted by a man claiming to be from Southsea. He then strikes up a relationship with them and tells them he has a significant amount of money due to him from inheritance in South Africa but he needs money to 'unlock' these funds.

The women - some of whom are from the Basingstoke area - have given this man money on several occasions, running into thousands of pounds.
Detective Constable Darrin Carey said: "I would like to appeal to any other women who believe they may have fallen victim to a similar online dating site scam to contact me.

"I would urge anyone that is asked to part with money in this way to reconsider making bank transfers in these circumstances to anyone they have not met."
Hampshire Constabulary offers the following advice for people using online dating sites -

    • Just because the dating site is considered reputable this does not mean the people using it are genuine. Friends and family may give you advice but make your own considered judgements alongside their advice.
    • Use your general common sense when speaking with people on dating sites. If you wouldn't say it to someone face-to-face then don't say it online. If you do meet it could put you in a situation you find difficult to get out of.
    • Don't fall for internet dating scams. The fraudster won't ask for money immediately, but it won't be long before they request financial assistance for a number of reasons.
    • Try and speak to the person on the phone before you plan to meet them.
    • Ensure you have an understanding of each others' expectations before engaging in any physical contact.
    • Never agree to meet at your home address. Always meet in a public place as a precaution and let someone know where you are going and arrange to call them after your date to let them know you are safe.
    • Make sure you take care when going home. Plan your journey home before you go out.
    • Be cautious if something seems too good to be true.
    • Make sure you keep your personal details secure by adjusting your privacy settings where necessary.
    • Refrain from excessive drinking. Your judgement could become impaired leading to poor decision making.
    • Trust your instincts and if things seem wrong, make an excuse to leave or ask for help.

We're not currently accepting new comments on this site

We're reader powered! Please help us keep publishing today...

Our local news is currently free to view, but not to produce. Join people just like you who already chip in to keep our site going by becoming a 'Good Friend' supporter for just £2.99 a month - or more if you can.

Use the subscribe button below using a debit or credit card securely via PayPal. You don't need a PayPal account - just use the "Pay with Debit or Credit Card' option, when you click the 'Subscribe' button below, on the next screen. There's no obligation to open a PayPal account. Or use your existing PayPal account if you prefer. Or even better, contact us to set up a standing order so we get all your sub rather than PayPal taking a percentage.

Click here for other options/to set up a standing order - and help us keep on keeping on.

It's appreciated!

Subcription Options

 

Alternatively make a one-off donation here - you don't need a PayPal account for this option either.