When we think of a “romance scam,” it’s easy to imagine someone hiding behind a fake online profile, deceiving victims from afar. But romance scams aren’t always confined to the digital world. What happens when the scammer takes things offline, or even, when it’s someone you’ve already met or even know and trust?
The Truth About In-Person Romance Scams
Meeting someone face-to-face, knowing them beforehand or even having an established relationship with them doesn’t eliminate the possibility of being scammed. In fact, meeting in person can be a deliberate strategy scammers use to gain your trust and deepen the emotional bond. This makes it even easier for them to manipulate and exploit you.
Romance scams that involve in-person interactions can feel more convincing because they break the stereotype of the anonymous online scammer. However, the core tactics remain the same: building trust, creating emotional intimacy and then leveraging that trust for personal gain.
Why Face-to-Face Doesn’t Rule Out a Scam?
Whether it’s an online connection that turns into an in-person meeting or someone you thought you trusted, scammers may use in-person interactions to strengthen emotional bonds, making it harder for victims to detect their true intentions.
A significant red flag is a history of similar behaviour, such as manipulating or defrauding others in relationships. Romance scammers often target multiple victims, using practised tactics to create emotional connections and exploit them financially or emotionally.
What are the Signs of a Face-to-Face Romance Scam?
While meeting or knowing someone in person may feel more reassuring, unfortunately, it doesn’t always mean the relationship is genuine. Here are some signs that the relationship might be a scam, even if you’ve met face-to-face:
- Rushing to Emotional Intimacy – The scammer quickly declares love or deep emotional feelings, even if you haven’t known each other long.
- Financial Requests – One of the biggest red flags is requesting money, often disguised as emergencies or investment opportunities.
- Emotional Manipulation – Scammers utilise the emotional bond they have created with you to guilt trip you into helping them or making you feel obligated to support them financially.
- Inconsistent Stories – They may provide inconsistent details and stories that don’t add up about their background, work and personal life.
- Lack of Personal Information – Scammers may also avoid sharing personal information, such as their home address and workplace.
- Pushing for Isolation – Scammers may try to isolate you from your friends and family to maintain control and discourage you from seeking advice over your concerns.
- Lifestyle Inconsistencies – Scammers often flaunt their wealth or claim to have financial resources but ask for money from you, claiming their resources are inaccessible.
- History of Similar Behaviour – If you discover they’ve manipulated or scammed others in previous relationships, it’s a strong sign of a romance scam. Scammers often target multiple victims using the same tactics.
How Can I Protect Myself?
If you notice any of these signs, trust your instincts and proceed with caution. Never send money or share sensitive personal information, no matter how convincing their story might be. If something feels off, talk to a trusted friend or family member, or seek legal advice.
Contact Us Today
A scam is still a scam, whether it happens online, in person, or both. Meeting someone face-to-face doesn’t guarantee their intentions are genuine. Recognising the warning signs and protecting yourself is essential, no matter how the relationship started. Trust should be earned over time, not built on rushed emotions or hidden motives.
If you suspect you’ve been a victim of a romance scam, call us for a FREE and confidential consultation with a specialist solicitor today on 01642 247656. Alternatively, complete our online contact form and one of our solicitors will be in touch.
Watson Woodhouse Solicitors provides support to clients throughout England and Wales.