'Mum sent them £140,000': How to spot the signs a loved one is being scammed
A report highlights the rise of romance scams, where criminals use AI-generated deepfakes to manipulate victims into sending large sums of money. Experts provide guidance on identifying warning signs, such as unusual financial activity and secretive communication.
Why it matters
As AI technology becomes more accessible, the sophistication of financial fraud is increasing, necessitating greater public awareness and protective measures.
Image source, Helen Image caption, Helen noticed changes in her mother's behaviour and discovered she had fallen victim to a romance scam
Head over heels in love with a man she met online, Helen's mother hollowed out a book and put £10,000 cash inside. She then posted it to a Shanghai Hospital where he awaited a life-saving operation.
Once he was better they would be together - but the demands kept coming. Then a new man came on the scene - he'd been kidnapped and if she didn't pay the ransom he would be killed.
In total she sent £140,000 to romance scammers.
The first time Helen knew something was wrong was when her mum accidentally sent messages intended for the criminals to her. Then she became more secretive.
"It became obvious to me something was going on again," she says.
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