What evidence should I keep and how do I report an online dating fraud?
Keep all messages, photos, profile links, payment records, and email correspondence — then report to your national fraud authority, the dating platform, and your bank, providing as much identifying detail about the scammer as possible.
Last reviewed: 10 June 2026
Explanation
Online dating fraud investigation relies heavily on victim evidence, since scammers typically use fake identities. The more complete your documentation of the interaction, the more useful it is to investigators working to identify the underlying criminal operation.
Preserve: all messages and chat logs (take screenshots before they are deleted); the scammer's profile and any profile pictures; email addresses and phone numbers used; any documents they sent (often stolen); all payment records including amounts, dates, account details, and methods used; and any video call recordings if you made them.
Report to Action Fraud (UK) or your equivalent national fraud authority, providing this evidence. Also report to the dating platform — they may be able to identify the real account behind the fake profile, cross-reference it with reports from other victims, and assist investigators. If payments were made, contact your bank simultaneously.
Some countries have specialist online fraud reporting channels and dedicated romance fraud units within police forces. Check your national police service for specialist guidance. This is general information.
Common red flags
- Your online partner has deleted their profile or messages
- You are now receiving messages from different accounts claiming to be the same person
- You have been contacted by someone claiming they can help you recover money from the scammer — this is a secondary scam
- The scammer's location as described does not match other details they have mentioned
What to do now
- Screenshot and save all messages, profiles, and photos before they disappear
- Note all contact details: usernames, email addresses, phone numbers, account numbers
- Report to Action Fraud and include all the evidence you have collected
- Report the profile to the dating platform for investigation and takedown
- Contact your bank about any payments and request recovery
- Seek emotional support — romance fraud is psychologically very impactful
Frequently asked questions
Will my conversations with the scammer be made public if I report?
No. Fraud reports are confidential and are used for investigative purposes only. The content of your private messages will not be published. Investigators and prosecutors handle evidence sensitively. Embarrassing or personal content will not be circulated beyond those who need it for the investigation.
What if the scammer threatened to expose personal content I sent them?
This is a form of sextortion or blackmail and is a separate serious criminal offence. Report to the police immediately in addition to the fraud authority. Do not pay — payment does not guarantee compliance and typically encourages further demands. Platforms like StopNCII.org can help prevent distribution of intimate images.