Key points
- Romance scammers build trust and emotional connections before asking for money, gifts or personal information.
- Warning signs include fast-moving relationships, avoiding in-person meetings, and requests to move conversations off dating platforms.
- Protect yourself by verifying who you're talking to and never sending money to someone you've only met online.
What is a romance scam?
A romance scam is when someone pretends to be interested in a relationship to gain your trust and exploit you financially. After building an emotional connection, they may ask for money, gifts, or personal information, often using convincing stories and excuses.
How to spot a romance scam
Wondering if your online match is genuine? If something doesn't feel quite right, these questions may help:
- Is the relationship moving unusually fast?
- Have they asked to move conversations off the dating app?
- Do they avoid meeting in person?
- Have they asked you to keep the relationship private?
- Do their stories seem inconsistent or change over time?
- Have they asked for money, gifts, or financial assistance?
If you answered "yes" to one or more of these questions, it could be a warning sign of a romance scam.
Common romance scam scenarios and what a scammer might say
Here are some common romance scam scenarios and the types of messages you might receive:
- Investment opportunity: “I thought about you when I made this investment because I want us to build a future together."
- Moving in together: “We're so close to finally living together. I just need a little help with the bond."
- Money forwarding request: “I trust you more than anyone. Could you send this payment on my behalf?"
- Travel costs: "I'm counting down the days until I can see you, but I'm stuck without enough money for the flight."
- Personal crisis: "You're the only person I can turn to right now. Please help me get through this."
- Emergency expenses: "I hate asking, but it's an emergency and I don't know what else to do."
While these messages may sound genuine, they are often used to create trust, urgency or sympathy to persuade you to part with your money.
How to protect yourself from romance scams
STOP
Be cautious if an online relationship moves unusually fast.
CHECK
Verify who you’re talking to, question inconsistencies in their stories, and be wary if they avoid meeting in person.
PROTECT
Don't share sensitive information (such as your password, PIN, one-time passcodes or ANZ Shield codes) with anyone. Don’t send money to someone you’ve only met online.
Scam tactics can evolve over time. Staying informed about current scams can help you recognise warning signs and stay better protected. Explore the latest scams and security alerts.
What to do if you’ve been targeted by a scam
- Stop all contact with the scammer
- Report the scam to your bank and other relevant authorities immediately
- Secure your accounts and devices (for example, by changing passwords and enabling multi-factor authentication)
Where to report fraud and scams
If you suspect fraud on your account or have shared financial information or transferred money as a result of a scam, please contact your bank.
If you bank with ANZ, please contact us straightaway. Our Customer Protection Team is available 24/7 to help you.
You can also report scams to:
- ReportCyber (Australian Cyber Security Centre)
- Scamwatch (Australian Government)
For additional support, IDCare provides guidance on identity theft and cyber security concerns.
