In the digital age, and with the exponential increase in the use of AI, more and more of our lives are moving online. The world of online dating particularly has expanded rapidly over the last decade. Many people prefer online dating, however, it does sometimes come with risks.
What are romance scams?
Romance scams are one of the increasingly concerned repercussions of the online dating world. In these incidents, fraudsters create fake profiles on dating sites or social media to link up with people and start to build trust through conversation. Eventually the victim believes they are in a romantic relationship with the fraudster, whom they never meet in person.
The romance fraudster will use manipulative language to exploit their victim so that when they ask for money to be transferred for a fictional issue, such as a medical emergency or urgent flights, there is no question about its legitimacy. When the money is transferred, the scammer will become uncontactable.
Who are the victims of romance scams?
Romance scams have been increasing both in number, and the amount of money being taken from people. UK Finance has reported that £629m has been stolen in the first 6 months of 2025, and there has been an increase of 17% in confirmed cases. Those going through divorce or separation, or at another vulnerable transitional moment are often prime targets for romance scams. This is often because they are:
- Emotionally vulnerable
- Under financial strain
- Wanting a new relationship
These factors mean that those going through a relationship breakdown are sometimes more likely to be taken in by the manipulative language of a romance scammer. They may also agree that meeting in person is not sensible because of their circumstances.
Protecting your emotions after divorce
Divorce is the second most stressful life event a person can go through. The practical, legal and emotional challenges are hugely significant and, more often than not, impact every area of life.
Whilst there is nothing legally wrong with dating during your divorce, it is important to treat yourself with kindness and not jump into something ‘just because’ – especially as in some circumstances it could impact how the finances of your relationship are dealt with. Also, it is important to remember that if it seems too good to be true, it usually is.
Online dating can have its positives, of course. It is a good way to quickly meet new people and find a connection before the pressure of meeting up in real life. It means you can explore what is out there before taking the plunge.
However, it does come with drawbacks, especially when you’re at your most vulnerable.
Divorce and separation can sometimes leave you with your guard down, and the need to feel loved can take over all your natural sensibilities. This clouds the red flags that an online scammer might present.
It is important to be brave, and vulnerable to an extent. However, protecting yourself and your wellbeing is paramount. This will help when it comes to the world of online dating after divorce.
Understand more about overcoming loneliness after a divorce or a break-up.
Protecting your finances after divorce
It can be easy to fall victim to romance scammers, who are solely after your money. They will play to your needs and guilt-trip you into handing over money. However, when you are going through divorce, your financial situation is often complicated. You will be negotiating the division of assets with your ex-spouse and trying to manage the transition of one household into two.
It’s important that you run any significant payments and potential changes in your relationship status past your lawyer, especially to an unknown party. This could have an impact on your case especially if you are in your financial disclosure stage. Your financial disclosure will need to include all assets and finances over £500. By taking this money out of your account, even if it is in your sole name, you are reducing the matrimonial pot. This could potentially negatively affect your case and cause delays to proceedings.
Useful Links
How to protect your money during divorce
What is a situationship? The dating grey zone that can waste your time
