Romantics seeking love online this Valentine’s Day are being warned not to let their hearts lead their heads to avoid being scammed.

Online dating sites take the traditional form of dating on to the internet. While most who participate are sincere and honest in the information they provide, unfortunately there are exceptions. As the popularity of online dating has increased, so have the incidences of fraud.

Dyfed-Powys Police’s Digital Communications and Cyber Crime Unit (DCCU) in conjunction with Get Safe Online, is warning online daters to ensure they keep personal information, particularly financial information, safe and secure.

Detective Sergeant Rob Gravelle, Head of the DCCU, said: “It’s great when you click with someone online, just make sure you’re clicking safely. If someone you’ve never met declares their undying love for you after two online conversations, then this should raise suspicions. Likewise, it’s unlikely that someone would need to borrow money off somebody they have never met, or only just met and there is no reason for anyone to ask you for money or your financial information, no matter what sob story they give.

“Falling for these types of scams is particularly heart-breaking for victims leaving them feeling embarrassed and ashamed. There have been instances of this in the Dyfed-Powys area. One victim, who wishes to remain anonymous, was conned out of thousands of pounds through a fake dating profile.

“Anyone who fears they are being scammed online, or has concerns about family or friends who may be vulnerable, please contact us on 101 or report it online www.dyfed-powys.police.uk.”

Tony Neate, CEO of Get Safe Online, said: “What strikes me is the length of time and effort fraudsters are willing to commit to in order to take people’s money and destroy their lives and confidence. One case reported by the National Fraud Intelligence Bureau (NFIB) in 2014 showed a victim giving over £45,000 to a fraudster over a period of nine years before they realised it was a scam. For this victim, this would have rightly felt like a long-term and honest relationship.

“Even if you feel you have become closer to someone via email and phone, you should still remember that this person is largely a stranger to you so if you do feel ready to meet them in person, whether it is your first or fifth date, keep on high alert and report anything suspicious.

“With the right precautions in place, we can nip romance fraud in the bud and stop this type of case from repeating itself.”

For safety tips visit www.getsafeonline.org.