Fake Online Partners
Invented romantic identities built to win trust and then request money.
Last reviewed: 1 June 2026
What this scam is
A fake online partner is a fabricated identity — often using stolen photos — created to form a romantic bond and eventually ask for money. Many are operated by organised groups following a script.
If this has happened to you, it is not a reflection of your judgement. These scams are engineered to bypass caution through patience and emotional connection.
How it works
Contact begins on a dating app or social media. The 'partner' is attentive and consistent, quickly deepening the relationship while avoiding video calls or meeting. After trust is built, a crisis or opportunity creates a need for money.
Common red flags
- Quickly intense feelings and talk of a future
- Always a reason they can't video call or meet
- Story leads toward money — a crisis, fee, or investment
- Discourages you from telling friends or family
Sanitized example messages
Illustrative, sanitized examples. Personal details are replaced with placeholders such as [phone number] and [fake link].
I feel like I've known you forever. My camera is broken but I'll call soon, I promise.
I hate to ask, but I'm stuck and only you can help me right now. Please don't tell anyone.
Payment methods used
- Bank transfer
- Gift cards
- Crypto
- Money transfer
Who is usually targeted
- People seeking connection
- Recently bereaved or divorced
- Isolated individuals
What to do immediately
- Pause and stop sending money
- Reverse-image-search their photos
- Talk to someone you trust — secrecy protects the scammer
- Contact your bank if you've sent funds and report it
Evidence to preserve
- Profile and photos
- Full chat history
- Payment records
Where to report it
- Action Fraud (UK) — UK national fraud & cybercrime reporting centre
- FTC ReportFraud (US) — US Federal Trade Commission fraud reports
- FBI IC3 (US) — US Internet Crime Complaint Center
- Scamwatch (Australia) — Australian competition & consumer reporting
- Your bank's fraud line — Use the number on the back of your card or in your banking app — never a number the caller gives you
Always verify reporting routes and emergency contacts on the official government or agency website for your country.
Frequently asked questions
How can I tell if an online partner is real?
Insist on a live video call early, reverse-image-search their photos, and be cautious if they avoid meeting or quickly steer toward money. Talking openly with friends or family is one of the strongest protections.