31 cases were reported in Ireland in the first five months of 2022.
31 cases of romance fraud, costing victims more than €800,000 were reported in Ireland in the first five months of the year.
Gardaí are warning the public of romance fraud, particularly those who meet their partners on dating apps and social media.
All cases bar one happened online, and the majority of victims were women.
In almost every case, the stolen money was transferred to accounts outside Ireland or to bitcoin wallets
Detective Superintendent Michael Cryan says most fraudsters won't ask for money immediately:
Gardaí also said romance fraudsters are targeting vulnerable people, including those with learning difficulties.
Detective Superintendent Michael Cryan describes some red flags to watch out for:
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