Home / Crime and Justice / Scammer Posed as Vet, Demanded Marriage and Cash
Scammer Posed as Vet, Demanded Marriage and Cash
24 Nov
Summary
- Scammers create fake online profiles to build trust.
- Victims lose an estimated £106m in the UK to romance fraud.
- Fraudster claimed illness in Africa, sought thousands for bills.
Romance fraud is a significant and increasing crime, with UK victims losing an estimated £106 million in the last financial year. This scam typically involves perpetrators establishing fake online identities to build trust through a semblance of a romantic relationship, with the ultimate aim of financial exploitation.
One victim shared her experience, initially hesitant about dating, she found conversations evolving into a relationship. The scammer, pretending to be a veterinarian, proposed marriage while she was on holiday in Spain. He then claimed to be ill in Africa while caring for animals, urgently requesting thousands of dollars for medical expenses.
Despite the victim's inability to provide the full amount, the scammer's persistent requests and expressions of 'love' made her feel guilty. This case highlights the manipulative tactics used by fraudsters to extract money by exploiting emotional connections and trust.
