In the lead-up to Valentine’s Day, the National Anti-Scam Centre has released its final quarter scams statistics. These statistics show an increase in romance scams reports and money stolen across 2025. The data highlights the importance of talking to family and friends about the tactics scammers use.
Romance scams remain one of the most financially and psychologically damaging crimes in Australia. More than $28.6 million stolen was reported to Scamwatch between January and December 2025. This represents a 21.8 per cent increase in money stolen from 1,330 Australians.
Scammers contacted most victims through online channels, such as social media, dating platforms and online forums. Online contact led to more than 80 per cent of financial theft.
ACCC Acting Chair Catriona Lowe said criminals use carefully rehearsed tactics designed to build trust quickly and shift conversations toward requests for money, gifts or personal information.
“Romance scammers operate all year round, but the lead up to Valentine’s Day is a good time to have a heart-to-heart with loved ones and build awareness of how these scams work so we can help people better protect themselves and others.”
“Criminals exploit technology, trust, and emotion for financial gain. Reporting suspicious activity to Scamwatch and sharing what you know can stop them from causing further harm and protect others.”
The warning signs of a scam
- Scammers may be attentive and affectionate early on to create a fast emotional bond.
- Requests to switch from dating apps or social media to private messaging services.
- Avoiding in-person contact.
- Asking for money.
- Applying pressure by creating urgency or asking for secrecy.
Never send money or share details with someone you have not met in person.
If you’re concerned about a friend or family member our red flags checklist can help you better understand the warning signs. Use our conversation starters to help you prepare how best to talk to them.
Other scam trends
Data for the final quarter of 2025 has been published in Scam statistics.
- There was a 5 per cent increase in financial theft across 2025.
- 200,675 people reported scams and 28,202 reported money stolen.
- Investment scams, phishing scams and romance scams resulted in the highest amount of financial theft.
- More people were victims to shopping scams than any other type.
- Online scams caused double the financial harm of other scam types.
