South Wales Police posted a powerful response to a man who suggested people who are victim of scammers are to blame for their losses. The force posted about online fraudsters who target people and use their good nature to steal money.
In a post on their Facebook page, the force wrote: “Online dating? Romance fraud is when you meet and chat to someone online… who is actually a fraudster looking to make money. They may ask for cash in an emergency to tug at your heartstrings.”
Many commented in support of the post, knowing how the scammers take advantage of people in the community. However, one man decided it was the victims fault and made his feelings known.
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He commented: “If people are dull enough to send 100s/1000s of pounds to someone they have never met and only interacted with online then its their own fault.” Thankfully, the South Wales Police social team were on the case to set the record straight.
They responded: “Hi [name], fraudsters can be incredibly clever, manipulative and persuasive, and it’s nobody’s fault but the perpetrator’s. There may be all sorts of reasons that victims and would-be victims are convinced, and we will support all of those affected – without judgement. And us sharing this advice may just help someone losing their money to a fraudster in future.”
Police have also been alerted to fraudsters imitating a police officer over the phone. They posted: “We have been made aware of some fraudulent phone calls being made to members of the public, coming from an individual claiming to be a police officer from Paddington police station.
“The caller alleges you may have become victim of a fraudulent purchase of a television and to call 999 immediately. This is a scam. Scammers have the ability to ‘spoof’ phone numbers and claim to be organisations such as banks, police and other organisations.”
If you receive a call you believe to be fraudulent end the call and ring 101 to report your concerns.
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