Limerick gardaí issue warning regarding romance scams

GARDAÍ have issued a warning to the public regarding romance scams.

A romance scam is a confidence trick involving scammers who feign romantic intentions towards a victim, gaining the victim's affection, and then using that goodwill to get the victim to send money to the scammer under false pretences or to commit fraud against the victim.

Gardaí say there has been a substantial increase in these types of scams in the past year.

Garda Nathan Crehan from Henry Street garda station said there are a number of signs people should look out for.

"Romance fraudsters will try to move communications away from dating websites. They suggest that you move to instant messaging, text or phone calls instead.

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"They will ask a lot of personal questions and avoid answering personal questions about themselves.

"They will try to establish a bond quickly and ask for financial help. They may tell you about money problems in the hope that you’ll offer to help.

"They will never meet you in person. They will present obstacles and may go as far as making arrangements and cancelling them at the last minute."

If you believe that you are a victim of a romance scam, or think your identity or personal information has been compromised, contact any garda station and report the crime. An Garda Síochána will treat all reports in confidence.