TL;DR: The Queensland Government said in February 2026 that more than 850 Queenslanders reported losing close to $6 million to dating and romance scams over a year, with about a quarter in February alone. In one February, 61 Queenslanders lost $1.4 million+, about four times NSW ($296,000) and over three times Victoria ($380,000). People aged 55–64 were most likely to be scammed, with a median loss of $7,000.
The numbers
From the Queensland Government statement (6 February 2026), using Scamwatch data:
| Stat | Figure |
|---|---|
| Queenslanders reporting romance scam losses (year) | 850+ |
| Total reported losses | Close to $6 million |
| Share of losses in February | About a quarter |
| Queensland, one February | 61 people, $1.4M+ |
| NSW, same February | $296,000+ |
| Victoria, same February | $380,000 |
| Most-scammed age group | 55–64 |
| Median loss per scam | $7,000 |
Top contact methods: websites, emails and text messages. And the government says victims likely under-report out of embarrassment.
Why February? Valentine’s Day. Scammers time the love-bombing to land when people are most hopeful. It’s cynical, and it works.
Warning signs
- Someone you’ve never met in person asks for money
- The relationship moves fast
- Pressure to move to another messaging app
- Investment suggestions, often cryptocurrency
- Urgent money requests
- Secrecy and isolation from friends and family
- Endless excuses for not meeting or video chatting
If three or more of those sound familiar, step back and talk to someone you trust.
What to do
- Stop sending money. Don’t send "one last payment" to unlock earlier ones.
- Contact your bank immediately.
- Report to police and Scamwatch.
- Get support from IDCARE (1800 595 160) if you shared personal info.
A quick reality check
A reverse image search of their photos takes a minute. A video call takes five. Real partners pass both. Read our romance scam red flags and how to check a dating profile.
More Australian cases: WA romance scams and Victoria’s 2025 surge. A free exposure check shows what personal data scammers could find on you.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much did Queenslanders lose to romance scams?
More than 850 Queenslanders reported losing close to $6 million in a year, per the Queensland Government.
Why are romance scam losses higher in February?
About a quarter of Queensland’s yearly losses happened in February, around Valentine’s Day.
Who is most targeted by romance scams in Queensland?
People aged 55 to 64, with a median reported loss of $7,000.
What should I do if I’m in a romance scam?
Stop sending money, contact your bank, report to police and Scamwatch, and get support.