Police are urging residents to remain vigilant after recent reports of suspected romance fraud across the county.

Throughout August, bank staff and police officers in Cheshire worked together to safeguard several individuals who were attempting to send money to people they had met online.

In some cases, victims had transferred significant sums of money over many months.

This includes being persuaded to send money overseas, taking out loans, purchasing gift cards, and transferring funds to people they had met through social media, dating websites or messaging applications.

Jim Day, financial abuse safeguarding and prevention officer, said: "Romance fraud is one of the most emotionally damaging types of fraud we encounter.

"During these offences, victims are not just losing money, they are losing trust in relationships and often experience significant emotional harm.

"But remember, if you have been a victim of romance fraud, it is not your fault and it can happen to anyone. Criminals are professional manipulators and will often spend months building a relationship before asking for money."

Criminals build trust with their victims before asking for money, never meeting in person (Credit: Canva)

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Romance fraud relates to criminals creating fake identifies online and building a relationship with their victims.

This can go on for some time to build trust before criminals start asking for money, despite never meeting in person.

Offenders claim the money is for a variety of reasons, such as medical bills, travel expenses, business problems or another type of emergency.

Office Day added: "If someone you have only met online starts discussing financial difficulties and asking for financial assistance, please be vigilant.

"If you believe you have been a victim of romance fraud, contact your bank immediately and report the incident to Report Fraud.

"Also report to Cheshire Police by calling 101 or reporting through the Cheshire Police website. "Anyone concerned that a friend or family member may be a victim of romance fraud is encouraged to speak with them and raise awareness."

Tips to protect yourself from romance fraud

• Never send money to someone you have only met online.
• Be suspicious if someone avoids video calls or meeting in person, and claims they can't because they are working overseas, in the military or on an oil rig.
• Do not share personal or financial information with online contacts.
• Trust your instincts if something feels wrong and speak with family and friends about the situation.
• Be vigilant for requests for money for medical emergencies, requests to purchase gift cards or being asked to send money through transfer services.
• Look out for promises of future wealth, inheritance payments or repayment once a problem is resolved.
• Be wary of any attempts to isolate the victim from their family and friends.