Long-Distance Romance Scams
Relationships kept permanently remote, with endless reasons a meeting or video call can't happen.
Last reviewed: 1 June 2026
What this scam is
A long-distance romance scam keeps the relationship remote indefinitely. Distance explains why you can't meet, and a steady stream of obstacles maintains the gap while money is requested.
How it works
The partner is conveniently abroad for work or family. Plans to meet always collapse at the last minute, often with a cost attached — a ticket, a visa, a fee. The relationship feels real but never becomes physical.
Common red flags
- Endless reasons meetings can't happen
- Last-minute travel problems requiring money
- Avoids spontaneous video calls
- Discourages telling others
Sanitized example messages
Illustrative, sanitized examples. Personal details are replaced with placeholders such as [phone number] and [fake link].
My flight to see you was cancelled and I need [amount] to rebook — I can't wait to finally meet.
Payment methods used
- Bank transfer
- Gift cards
- Money transfer
Who is usually targeted
- People open to international relationships
What to do immediately
- Stop sending money toward 'meeting' costs
- Insist on a spontaneous video call
- Talk to friends or family and report it
Evidence to preserve
- Chat history
- Any travel documents sent
- 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
What if they really are just far away?
Genuine partners can be distant — but they don't repeatedly need your money to overcome obstacles to meeting, and they will do a spontaneous live video call. Repeated paid 'almost-meetings' are the warning sign.