This Valentine’s Day, the OPP reminded that residents should be on the lookout for romance fraudsters trying to swindle you out of your money and love.  

In 2021, the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC) received a significant increase in romance fraud reports amounting to $64.6 million in losses.

Police say that in Romance Scams, fraudsters gain the trust of the victim by carrying on a relationship over a period of time.  This can include displays of affection, such as sending gifts, flowers and tokens to prove that their feelings are genuine.  

Police advise that you:

• Never, send money to someone you've never met.
• Protect your personal and financial information.
• Don't share personal or financial information with anyone you've only met online or by phone.
• Never send intimate photos or videos of yourself. They can be used to blackmail you.
• If you meet someone online, verify who they are.  

If you do fall victim to a fraud or know someone who has, contact your local police service to report the crime, and also report it to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.