Investment, romance and purchase scams

These scams persuade you to send money willingly, sometimes in one go, sometimes over months. They're among the most common and most costly scams in the UK.

Investment scams

Fake investments in crypto, foreign exchange, shares, gold, wine or "AI trading". They're often advertised on social media with fake celebrity endorsements, or come through a new online "friend" or messaging group.

Warning signs

• Guaranteed or very high returns with "no risk"
• Pressure to invest quickly before the "opportunity" closes
• A dashboard showing your money growing, but you can't withdraw without paying "fees" or "tax"
• Being asked to install a trading app from a link, or to send crypto to a wallet
• Being coached on what to tell your bank if it asks questions

Before you invest

• Check the firm is authorised on the FCA register, and contact it using the details on the register, not ones they gave you.
• Check the FCA ScamSmart warning list.
• Get independent advice. A real opportunity will still be there tomorrow.

Romance scams

A scammer builds a relationship, often over weeks or months, on a dating app, social media or even a game. They seem caring and attentive. Then come the problems: a medical emergency, a stuck shipment, a visa, travel costs or an investment "we can share".

• They avoid video calls or meeting in person, always with an excuse
• They quickly move the conversation off the dating site to WhatsApp or another app
• They profess strong feelings very quickly
• They ask for money, gift cards or crypto, or to receive money into your account for them

Never send money to someone you haven't met in person. A reverse image search of their photos can reveal stolen pictures. If someone you care about is in an online relationship, gently ask questions. People caught up in romance scams are often embarrassed and need support, not blame.

Purchase scams

Fake sellers on online marketplaces, social media and fake shop websites. Common items include cars, phones, games consoles, concert tickets, holiday rentals and pets.

• Be suspicious of prices that are much lower than elsewhere.
• Pay by credit card or through the platform's own checkout for buyer protection. Avoid paying strangers by bank transfer.
• Never pay a "deposit" for a pet, car or rental you haven't seen in person.
• Check reviews from several independent sources, and how long a website has existed.
• Use official ticket sellers and be careful with tickets advertised on social media.

Last reviewed: October 2026