Scam education · Manipulation patterns
Romance and investment fraud
How relationship-building can be used to introduce a false investment opportunity.
Published 24 September 2026 · Prepared by Fraud Response Network
Speak with us
How relationship-building can be used to introduce a false investment opportunity. These patterns are indicators for careful checking, not a way to determine a specific person’s conduct without evidence.
Trust develops over time
A scammer may invest weeks in conversation before mentioning cryptocurrency or trading. The personal relationship and investment pitch may be parts of the same approach.
The platform may be controlled by the fraudster
A link or app can show fabricated returns. A small early withdrawal does not establish that larger funds are safe.
Seek a second view
Speak with someone independent before sending money. Preserve messages and contact the relevant provider if a payment has already been made.
If a payment has already been made, contact the relevant provider using its official contact details and preserve the original records.
Talk to an Expert
Worried about a payment you’ve made? Speak with us.
Share a few key details so the team can review your request.
Your request has been received.
Your details have been sent to Fraud Response Network for review.
If you sent money in the last 24 hours, contact your bank or payment provider now using its official contact details.
Immediate steps for a recent transferNo recovery result can be promised. FRN is not a bank, regulator, law firm or police service.