Women in north Hampshire warned of website dating scam

According to Hampshire Constabulary, detectives are investigating a case where women have been conned out of tens of thousands of pounds by a man they met on a dating website.
The women are contacted by a man claiming to be from Southsea. He then strikes up a relationship with them and tells them he has a significant amount of money due to him from inheritance in South Africa, but he needs money to unlock these funds.
The women – some of whom are from the north Hampshire area, have given this man money on several occasions.
DC Darrin Carey said: “I would like to appeal to any other women who believe they may have fallen victim to a similar online dating site scam to contact me.
“I would urge anyone that is asked to part with money in this way to reconsider making bank transfers in these circumstances to anyone they have not met.”
Anyone with any information, or concerns about these scams is asked to contact DC Carey at Basingstoke Police Station on the non emergency telephone number 101. Alternatively contact Crimestoppers anonymously, telephone 0800 555 111.

Hampshire Constabulary offers the following advice for people using online dating sites:

- People using reputable dating sites may not be genuine.
- The fraudster won’t ask for money immediately, but it won’t be long before they request financial assistance.
- Try and speak to the person on the phone before you plan to meet them.
- Never agree to meet at your home address. Meet in a public place, let someone know where you are going beforehand/you are safe afterwards.
- Take care/plan your return journey beforehand
- Be cautious if something seems too good to be true.
- Keep your personal details secure/adjust privacy settings
- Refrain from excessive drinking to avoid impaired judgement/decision making.
- Trust your instincts and if things seem wrong, make an excuse to leave, or ask for help.