POLICE are reminding people to be careful of romance scams in the run up to Christmas.
West Mercia Police report that each month people from the county as well as further afield fall victim to romance fraud.
The police say: "Met someone online who's now asking you for money?
"Do they have a very sad sob story you can somehow relate to?
"Each month, victims from Herefordshire, Shropshire and Worcestershire report that they have had their hearts broken and their money taken.
"Remember that criminals are experts at impersonating people. They spend hours researching you for their scams, especially when committing romance fraud. Stop and think as it could protect you and your cash."
The force are promoting Action Fraud's 12 Frauds of Christmas Campaign.
Action Fraud add: "It is important that no matter how long you’ve been speaking to someone online and how much you think you trust them, if you have not met them in person it’s important that you do not:
- Send them any money
- Allow them access to your bank account
- Transfer money on their behalf
- Take a loan out for them
- Provide copies of your personal documents such as passports or driving licenses
- Invest your own money on their behalf or on their advice
- Purchase and send the codes on gift cards from Amazon or iTunes
- Agree to receive and/or send parcels on their behalf (laptops, mobile phones etc.)
"If you think you have been a victim of a romance scam, do not feel ashamed or embarrassed - you are not alone. Contact your bank immediately and report it to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040."
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