Gardai issue warning about 'romance fraud' ahead of Valentine's Day

GARDAI are warning members of the public to be aware of a so called 'romance' fraud as we approach Valentine’s Day tomorrow.

Last year, almost 200 cases of romance fraud were reported and gardai in Limerick and across the country are anxious to ensure there is no repeat this year.

"The victims were both male and female and from all age groups. The average amount of money lost was in excess of €20,000. The Covid-19 Regulations and travel restrictions have resulted in reduced social gatherings and as a result is generating opportunities for fraudsters to engage in online romance fraud," said a garda spokersperson.

According to gardai, romance fraud is enabled via online dating sites or other social media by fraudsters who will provide the victims with well-prepared stories designed to deceive.