Romance fraud booms for Gen Z

Romance fraud is significantly increasing in Generation Z, according to figures released this week.

Liz Ziegler, fraud prevention director at Lloyds, said “Romance scammers don’t care how old someone is. They look for opportunities to build trust, create an emotional connection, then turn that relationship into a request for money.

Scams reported by Lloyds banking group between September 1 2025 and August 31 2026 detailed:

·       Victims aged 18 to 24 surged by 59% 

·       Victims aged 25 to 34 surged by 39%.

·       Victims aged 75 to 84 suffered the highest average loss at £9,051

These figures are in direct comparison to the previous year.

Scammers often meet victims on dating sites and socials

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Whilst these figures have risen steeply it is still the over 65’s who are hit the hardest financially, with this group being stung for 55% of all money lost in Romance Fraud.

Younger victims typically met fraudsters on dating apps and social media, whereas over-50s were commonly targeted through traditional dating websites rather than apps.

Liz Ziegler, fraud prevention director at Lloyds commented, "Many people assume younger adults are less likely to fall victim because they are confident online, but being digitally savvy does not make someone immune to fraud.”

Here are Liz Ziegler’s tips on red flags with Romance Fraudsters:

·       Romance scammers often use intense messages and declarations of love to create a strong emotional connection before asking for money.

·       Protect personal and financial information. Do not share banking details, passwords, copies of identity documents or intimate material.

·       Look out for red flags. Be cautious of changing circumstances, inconsistencies and excuses that do not stand up to scrutiny. Be cautious if their online profile seems newly created, contains limited information, or appears too good to be true.

·       A reverse image search can show whether a photo appears elsewhere online or is being used on another person’s profile.

·       Step back from feelings of urgency or guilt. Fraudsters often create pressure, emergencies or emotional ultimatums to encourage quick payments.

·       Talk to someone you trust. Tell a friend or family member about the relationship, particularly before sending money. An outside perspective can help identify pressure or inconsistencies that are harder to recognise when emotions are involved.

This article draws on simultaneous reporting from The Independent, RTE 100 & London Evening Standard