TL;DR: Avon and Somerset Police said on May 22, 2026 that 239 local victims lost £2.25 million to romance fraud in 2025, according to new Report Fraud data. Nationally, 10,784 reports were made, up 29%, and people aged 55 to 74 suffered almost half of the losses. Police warn of hybrid romance and crypto investment frauds.
The local figures
Avon and Somerset Police say more than £2 million, precisely £2.25 million, was lost by 239 local victims in 2025, based on new data from Report Fraud. The force describes romance fraud as under-reported because victims feel embarrassed; fraud protect officer Amy Samotyj said there is “nothing to be embarrassed about”. The article gives no individual cases.
The national picture
- 10,784 romance fraud reports were made to Report Fraud in 2025, a 29% increase on 2024.
- National losses were more than £100 million.
- People aged 55 to 74 suffered the greatest losses, almost half the total.
- Police attribute part of the rise to greater awareness and confidence in reporting.
What police are seeing
Offenders build trust over weeks or months, then ask for money, often citing emergencies, investments or plans to meet. They use social media and dating sites, and investigators are seeing more AI-generated images and messages. Some cases are hybrid frauds that combine romance with fake investments, including cryptocurrency. See our crypto scam statistics and AI scam statistics.
Warning signs
- A relationship that develops very quickly, with strong early declarations of feeling.
- Excuses to avoid meeting in person or video calls.
- Requests for money, crypto or gift cards from someone you have not met.
- Talk of investments, medical emergencies or travel costs.
- The other person dislikes your self-protection measures.
Police advise speaking to a trusted friend or relative before sending money, reverse-image searching photos, telling the person you are fraud aware and listening if your bank raises concerns. Report to Report Fraud on 0300 123 2040 and contact your bank at once. Our guides how to report a scam in the UK and UK identity theft statistics help, and our free digital footprint check shows what is exposed.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much did Avon and Somerset victims lose?
More than £2 million, precisely £2.25 million, for 239 victims in 2025.
What were the national figures?
10,784 reports to Report Fraud in 2025, up 29%, with losses over £100 million.
Who loses the most?
People aged 55 to 74, with almost half of the total stolen.
What is a hybrid romance fraud?
A fraud that combines a romantic relationship with a fake investment, including cryptocurrency.
Sources
- Avon and Somerset Police: Romance fraud, £2.25m lost by victims in Avon and Somerset (May 22, 2026)
- Report Fraud (UK national fraud reporting service)